Chiefs Lurk for Trent Williams If 49ers Can't Reach Deal

San Francisco's star offensive tackle is seeking a big payday, and the Chiefs could pounce if he hits free agency.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The San Francisco 49ers and star offensive tackle Trent Williams are far apart on a new contract, and the Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly ready to swoop in and sign him if he becomes a free agent. Williams, a future Hall of Famer, has been a key part of the 49ers' offensive line for the past six seasons, but the two sides have made little progress on an extension as free agency approaches. The Chiefs are viewed as the team most eager to land Williams, who would provide a major boost to their offensive line and help protect star quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Why it matters

Losing Williams would be a major blow to the 49ers, who don't have a clear succession plan in place. It could force them to address the offensive line early in the upcoming draft. Meanwhile, the Chiefs have struggled to protect Mahomes in recent seasons, and adding a player of Williams' caliber would be a huge upgrade.

The details

According to reports, the 49ers' initial contract offer to Williams was 'decidedly low' and 'below average for a player of this accomplishment.' Williams is seeking one more big payday before retirement, and the 49ers' salary cap constraints are making it difficult to meet his demands. If Williams hits free agency, the Chiefs are viewed as the team most eager to sign him, having pursued him aggressively the last time he was on the open market in 2021.

  • The 49ers and Williams have until the start of free agency to reach a new deal.
  • Williams is entering his age 38 season, adding some inherent injury risk.

The players

Trent Williams

A future Hall of Fame offensive tackle who has been a key part of the San Francisco 49ers' offensive line for the past six seasons.

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, who the team is hoping to better protect by potentially signing Williams.

Kansas City Chiefs

An NFL team that is reportedly the 'most eager' to sign Trent Williams if he becomes a free agent, as they look to bolster their offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“San Francisco's initial proposal to Williams was seen as decidedly low, according to league sources, which is not unusual with how that team often initiated contract discussions.”

— Jason La Canfora, SportsBoom reporter

“Williams wants to win a Super Bowl, Kansas City has done more of that than any franchise since drafting quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and the Chiefs went after Williams very aggressively the last time he was on the open market.”

— Jason La Canfora, SportsBoom reporter

What’s next

The 49ers and Williams have until the start of free agency to reach a new deal. If they are unable to do so, the Chiefs are expected to make a strong push to sign the veteran offensive tackle.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the challenges the 49ers face in retaining their top talent due to salary cap constraints, as well as the importance of protecting star quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes. The potential loss of Trent Williams would be a major blow to the 49ers, and the Chiefs are poised to take advantage if he hits the open market.