Trent Williams isn't due to hit free agency anytime soon, but the San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle may soon look to renegotiate his contract, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.
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Fowler reported Saturday on SportsCenter that "there are whispers around some in the industry that he might want a new deal eventually."
The 11-time Pro Bowler is under contract through the 2026 season, and his $23 million salary isn't too far out of step with the current market. He's the fourth-highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL.
Willams continues to perform at an elite level. He was an All-Pro in 2023 and Pro Football Focus ranked him as the No. 13 overall player.
"The best left tackle in football showed no signs of slowing down this past season, dominating once again for the 49ers," PFF's Sam Monson wrote. "He didn't give up a single sack all year, including the playoffs, and his 92.5 PFF run-blocking grade was the second-best mark among tackles."
Williams may want to get his annual earnings closer to that of Penei Sewell, who's now making $28 million a year after signing his $112 million extension with the Detroit Lions.
An added level of financial security could be his overarching goal instead. The 35-year-old doesn't have any more guaranteed salary coming his way between now and free agency. If they were desperate to create some salary cap space, the Niners could designate him as a post-June 1 cut in 2025 or 2026 and wind up in the black.
San Francisco has some key players hitting the open market over the next few years and general manager John Lynch won't be able to keep everybody. Were Williams to become assertive about a new contract, it would present some headaches at an inopportune time.
