49ers Face Uncertainty Over Trent Williams' Contract

Other teams closely watching Williams' negotiations with San Francisco

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The San Francisco 49ers are in contract negotiations with veteran left tackle Trent Williams, but the two sides have yet to reach an agreement. Williams is entering the final year of his current deal, and rival teams like the Kansas City Chiefs are closely monitoring the situation, ready to potentially make a play for the seven-time Pro Bowler if he hits the open market.

Why it matters

Trent Williams is a cornerstone of the 49ers' offensive line and a key part of their success. Losing him would be a major blow, but the 49ers are facing salary cap constraints that could make it difficult to meet Williams' contract demands. Other contending teams are circling, sensing an opportunity to land an elite left tackle if the 49ers can't retain him.

The details

According to reports, the 49ers' initial contract offer to Williams was seen as 'decidedly low' by league sources. Williams, who turns 37 this year, is still performing at a high level but comes with injury risk. The 49ers are in a 'salary-cap crunch' and Williams carries a non-guaranteed cap figure of nearly $39 million for the upcoming season. Other teams, particularly the Kansas City Chiefs, are closely monitoring the situation and believe Williams holds significant leverage in negotiations.

  • Williams is entering the final season of his current contract with the 49ers.

The players

Trent Williams

A seven-time Pro Bowl left tackle who has been a cornerstone of the San Francisco 49ers' offensive line.

Kansas City Chiefs

An NFL team that is closely watching the contract negotiations between Trent Williams and the 49ers, and is seen as a potential suitor for Williams if he hits the open market.

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What’s next

The 49ers will need to continue negotiations with Trent Williams in an effort to reach a new contract agreement before the start of the 2026 NFL season. If they are unable to do so, Williams could potentially test the free agent market, where he would likely draw significant interest from other teams like the Kansas City Chiefs.

The takeaway

The 49ers' ability to retain Trent Williams will be a key storyline to watch as the NFL offseason unfolds. Williams' status is crucial to the 49ers' offensive line and overall success, but the team's salary cap constraints could make it difficult to meet his contract demands. Other teams are closely monitoring the situation, ready to potentially swoop in if Williams becomes available.