49ers Open to Trading Trent Williams
The 49ers might trade All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams after extension talks failed [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEvLtUK9Qm4]. Trading Williams would create a $34M dead cap hit, with the Chiefs rumored as potential suitors.
Trent Williams' potential departure marks a significant shift for the 49ers, who acquired him in 2020 from Washington for a 5th-round pick in 2020 and a 3rd-round pick in 2021. He was brought in to replace the retiring Joe Staley. Williams, now 37, is under contract through 2026, carrying a $38.8 million cap hit that year. His 2026 compensation includes a $22.21 million base salary, a $10 million signing bonus allocation, and a $100,000 workout bonus. The 49ers' willingness to trade Williams stems from stalled contract extension talks, with the team perhaps hesitant to commit significant money beyond 2026. Despite his age, Williams continues to perform at an elite level, earning First-Team All-Pro honors in 2025 and ranking among the league's top offensive tackles. Kansas City's rumored interest comes as their offensive line has struggled in recent seasons. In 2025, the Chiefs' O-line ranked in the middle of the league, but injuries plagued the unit. Patrick Mahomes was sacked a career-high number of times in 2024. Williams has earned 12 Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro nods throughout his 15-year career. He is widely considered one of the best offensive tackles of his generation. San Francisco has already signed veteran Vederian Lowe, who started 21 games at left tackle for New England, possibly as a contingency plan. Lowe's contract suggests the 49ers are looking for depth behind Williams, who has a history of missing games. The 49ers have approximately $37.7 million in cap space entering the 2026 season. The NFL's 2026 salary cap is set at $301.2 million. Trading Williams would not only create a significant dead cap but also leave a void at left tackle, a crucial position for protecting the quarterback.
