49ers Reportedly Open to Trading Superstar Tackle

Trent Williams' contract demands could lead to his departure from San Francisco.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly willing to trade veteran offensive tackle Trent Williams if they cannot reach a new contract agreement with him. Williams is entering the final year of his current deal with a $32 million salary and $38.84 million cap hit, and he is seeking more financial security. The 49ers have been reluctant to meet his demands, and now they may be open to trading the 12-time Pro Bowler if a resolution cannot be found.

Why it matters

Trent Williams has been one of the NFL's best offensive linemen for years, and his potential departure would be a significant loss for the 49ers. The team would need to find a way to protect quarterback Brock Purdy's blind side, either through the draft or another trade, if Williams leaves.

The details

Williams has been with the 49ers since 2020 after a long career with the Washington franchise. He is 37 years old and is seeking a contract extension with more financial security beyond the 2026 season. The 49ers have been unwilling to meet his demands, and now they are reportedly open to trading him if they cannot reach a new deal.

  • Williams is entering the final year of his current contract in 2026.

The players

Trent Williams

A 37-year-old offensive tackle who has made 12 Pro Bowls and 5 All-Pro teams in his career, primarily with the Washington franchise and the San Francisco 49ers since 2020.

Brock Purdy

The 49ers' starting quarterback, who would need a new blindside protector if the team trades Trent Williams.

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What’s next

The 49ers will need to decide whether to trade Trent Williams or try to reach a new contract agreement with him before the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The potential departure of Trent Williams would be a significant loss for the 49ers, who would need to find a way to protect their quarterback's blind side either through the draft or another trade. This situation highlights the challenges teams face in retaining their top talent, especially as players age and seek more financial security.