49ers Struggle to Extend Trent Williams, Potential Trade Targets Emerge

Steelers, Bears, and Chiefs could inquire about acquiring the veteran left tackle if he becomes available

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:19pm

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The San Francisco 49ers are having difficulty reaching a contract extension with veteran left tackle Trent Williams, whose current deal is set to expire after the 2026 season. This has led to speculation that the 38-year-old All-Pro could potentially be traded, drawing interest from teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Chicago Bears, and Kansas City Chiefs who are all in need of help at the left tackle position.

Why it matters

Williams is still considered one of the best left tackles in the NFL, so his availability on the trade market would be a significant development. The Steelers, Bears, and Chiefs are all playoff contenders looking to solidify their offensive lines, and adding a future Hall of Famer like Williams could be a game-changer for their Super Bowl aspirations.

The details

The 49ers have struggled to reach an agreement with Williams on a new contract, with his 2026 cap hit set to balloon to $47 million. This leaves him with no more guaranteed money or years left on his deal, putting him in line to become a free agent in 2027. While the 49ers remain optimistic about working something out, the lack of progress has led to speculation that a trade could be possible if the situation continues to be difficult.

  • The 49ers have until April's draft to try and reach a new deal with Williams.

The players

Trent Williams

A 38-year-old left tackle who is considered one of the best in the NFL. He has spent the last seven seasons with the San Francisco 49ers.

John Lynch

The general manager of the San Francisco 49ers, who remains optimistic about working out a new contract with Williams.

Broderick Jones

The starting left tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has struggled with injuries and inconsistency during his career.

Jawaan Taylor

The left tackle who was recently released by the Kansas City Chiefs, leaving them with a need at the position.

Ozzy Trapilo

The Chicago Bears' starting left tackle who suffered a torn patellar tendon during the playoffs, leaving his status for the 2026 season in doubt.

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What they’re saying

“Williams and the Niners have struggled to find common ground on a contract despite negotiating for much of the offseason. Williams is slated to enter the 2026 season with no guaranteed money or years left on his deal beyond 2026.”

— Nick Wagoner, ESPN reporter

“The Kansas City Chiefs, we continue to hear, would be at the front of the line to try to secure [Williams'] services.”

— Jason La Canfora

What’s next

The 49ers have until the 2023 NFL Draft in April to try and reach a new contract agreement with Trent Williams. If they are unable to do so, he could potentially be traded, with the Steelers, Bears, and Chiefs among the teams expected to inquire about his availability.

The takeaway

The uncertainty surrounding Trent Williams' future in San Francisco highlights the importance of securing top-tier offensive linemen, especially at the critical left tackle position. If Williams does become available, the teams in need of help at that spot will be eager to acquire his services and bolster their Super Bowl aspirations.