49ers reportedly interested in Redskins OT Trent Williams

The Redskins situation with Trent Williams is one that will have to be continuously monitored as the NFL Draft moves along. The implications, for a team such as Washington, are significant.

Trent Williams held out for the entire 2019 season, on the heels of contract issues and medical turmoil facilitated by miscommunication between him and the Washington Redskins training staff. Williams, soon to be 32 years old, is now in limbo, but the draft has potentially unearthed momentum, regarding his status.

The Redskins, for a long time, stood pat at a second-round value for Williams, and teams weren’t biting, largely due to the contract demands from Williams’ camp. The valuation of Williams still remains unclear, but there’s a chance he could be moved over the next couple days for a pick from Rounds 3 to 7. According to NBC Sports reporter Julie Donaldson, the San Francisco 49ers have emerged as a new suitor for Williams, joining the Vikings as a reported candidate.

Much like the Vikings, the 49ers have previous connections to Williams. Kyle Shanahan has first-hand experience with Williams from his time as the Redskins offensive coordinator, and knows just how impactful a tackle with Williams’ physical traits can be. The 49ers don’t have an immediate need at tackle, but Joe Staley is only getting older, and Williams, while 32, is still technically in his prime, and coming off a valuable year of rest.

Donaldson’s report of interest from San Francisco does not signify that a deal is likely on Day 2 of the 2020 NFL Draft, but it’s worth noting that the 49ers recently traded DeForest Buckner and drafted Javon Kinlaw, effectively freeing up almost $20 million in cap space on the defensive line. They have the cap flexibility to potentially accommodate Williams’ demands, and Shanahan knows that Williams is worth it.

There are indicators that a deal could be possible here, but nothing is concrete, and there’s no confirmation that a deal is even in the works. The 49ers also don’t have any more picks until Round 5, so their cupboard of draft assets to deal is relatively empty. That said, future picks could factor in, if Shanahan is set on getting a deal done. We’ll keep you updated on Williams’ situation, as well as the Redskins new developments in the 2020 NFL Draft.