The San Francisco 49ers are entering next season with most of their key players returning, including veteran left tackle Trent Williams. However, the team is noticeably hesitant to address the unclear future surrounding Williams, whose performance has raised concerns despite his recent Pro Bowl selection. The 37-year-old struggled with injuries and a decline in performance during the last season, contributing to growing doubts about his long-term role given his advancing age.
Williams’ Performance Reflects Age-Related Challenges Despite Pro Bowl Nod
Williams began the previous season below his usual standards, showing signs of diminished effectiveness on the offensive line. Although his play improved somewhat over the year, a hamstring injury sustained on the opening snap of Week 17 against the Chicago Bears sidelined him for the remainder of that game and the following week. Despite these setbacks, Williams started 16 games—a career high since 2013 during his time with Washington—and remained a critical part of the 49ers’ lineup.
Notably, Matt Barrows from The Athletic reported Williams allowed 40 quarterback pressures during the season, marking the highest number since his rookie year and the most on the 49ers squad. This statistic underscores the troubling signs from a veteran whose physical decline is increasingly evident.
Absence of a Clear Successor Raises Concerns for the 49ers
Williams appears determined to continue playing, potentially for two more seasons, but his advancing age worries the team about a steady decline making him a liability. Compounding this uncertainty is the lack of a viable backup or developmental player ready to step into the left tackle role. The current roster does not feature anyone the 49ers would trust to protect the blind side beyond a game or two if Williams were to miss time.
This gap is especially significant given the Niners’ unlikely willingness to invest a high draft pick on a tackle in the 2026 NFL Draft, as pressing roster needs elsewhere, such as wide receiver and edge rusher, take priority. Thus, the franchise is facing a critical transition period without a clear plan to replace one of its most important offensive linemen.
Contract Leverage and the Unspoken Question of What’s Next
Currently, Williams holds substantial leverage in contract negotiations and could push for improved terms given his importance to the offensive line unit. The 49ers are clearly reliant on his presence, but despite this, the team has yet to publicly acknowledge or strategize for the eventual post-Williams era. While he remains the unquestioned starter at left tackle, the inevitable question looms over the franchise’s future plans.
For now, San Francisco appears to be avoiding this challenging conversation, leaving fans and analysts anxious about the team’s readiness when Williams’s career winds down.
