The 49ers don't seem likely to prioritize an offensive lineman in the NFL Draft with the latest news about Trent Williams' future.
At some point in the not-so-distant future, the San Francisco 49ers will require a contingency plan to replace future Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams.
The 36 year old who has been a first-team All-Pro in three of the five seasons spent in the Bay Area, is in the twilight of his career. Combined with nagging ankle injuries that limited him to 10 games in 2024, it's fair to wonder whether or not Williams is leaning more toward retirement instead of playing what would be his 15th season in the NFL.
The Niners already have plenty of question marks for their offensive line entering 2025. Left guard Aaron Banks is a pending free agent, one who likely won't be re-signed, while center Jake Brendel and right tackle Colton McKivitz's efforts last year have prompted the need for upgrades. Only right guard Dominick Puni, a rookie in 2024, seems like a sure thing for the long haul.
A would-be Williams retirement announcement would certainly put the Niners in a pinch, especially considering their notable needs elsewhere on the roster. Should such a thing happen, San Francisco might be inclined to use its top pick in April's NFL Draft, No. 11 overall, on Williams' shoo-in replacement.
Alas, though, it doesn't appear as if that'll happen. And the 49ers' overall draft strategy shifts because of it.
John Lynch says Trent Williams will play in 2025
Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, general manager John Lynch was asked about Williams' imminent plans and whether or not his future with the Niners was in question.
Lynch's response was simple and blunt.
"Trent is playing," Lynch responded. "Trent is ready, he's motivated."
Despite his advanced age, NFL-wise, Williams remains one of the league's best offensive linemen. And while San Francisco has to consider long-term replacement options sooner than later, it's not a question that needs to be addressed now.
So, how would that alter the 49ers' forthcoming draft plans?
49ers can adjust draft board accordingly
It's a good year to need offensive and defensive linemen, and the Niners have needs for both. However, if Williams was poised to call it a career, the No. 11 overall pick would likely trend toward being used on his replacement.
Now, San Francisco can use that selection elsewhere, perhaps on a defensive tackle or even a cornerback.
OK, so what about the O-line's other needs? Left guard or upgrading over Brendel and McKivitz?
The 49ers don't prioritize guards as much as other teams, meaning Banks' likely departure isn't as big an alarm bell as some may think. And head coach Kyle Shanahan has opted for veteran experience at center over youthful potential, meaning Brendel (or a free agent) remains the favorite to start.
That's leaves a McKivitz upgrade as a possibility, but the glaring needs across the line of scrimmage likely point to the Niners addressing the defensive line first, tabling a would-be replacement on the right side of the O-line until later in the draft.
If Williams was on the brink of retirement, that draft plan would look significantly different.
