The San Francisco 49ers once again find themselves in a contract dispute with a star, which could lead to an unthinkable roster move.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Tuesday reported the 49ers and left tackle Trent Williams are “struggling to find a contractual solution” with Williams set to count for $39 million against the salary cap in 2026.
It’s hard to imagine the situation becoming so dire the 49ers would actually create such a massive problem for themselves in an offseason where they figure to try and become Super Bowl contenders. They already need to think about a long-term replacement for Williams, but for now it’s a need they can kick the can down the road on because Williams is still suiting up for them and playing at a high level.
Creating that need this offseason would throw a massive wrench into their roster build as weaknesses glare across the offensive line, in their receiving corps and along the defensive front.
Chances are Williams is trying to gain leverage in contract talks by leaking that the situation is so dire that he’s ready to leave the place he’s called home since he was acquired in a Day 3 trade during the 2020 NFL draft.
Williams has no guaranteed money left on the revised three-year contract he signed before the 2024 season. That deal is set to run through the 2027 season when Williams will be 39 years old.
If the 49ers cut Williams outright he would cost them $34,150,783 in dead money with $4,690,878 in savings. If they designate him as a post-June 1 release they’d spread his dead cap hit out across the next two years while saving $25,515,882 in 2026.
However, it’s difficult to envision San Francisco pushing that button without working something out with their superstar left tackle without a confirmed, high-level replacement for him.
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