San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Trent Williams (71) - Darren Yamashita/USA TODAY Sports
A long-fought off-season is finally at peace ahead of the 2024 season as Trent Williams has signed a new deal with the San Francisco 49ers. Williams has been holding out of practices all offseason but is back with the team just in time for the season. Here is a look at the new deal and how it came to be.
Trent Williams New Deal
Over the night of Monday through Tuesday, Williams’ brother posted on his Instagram story an image of Williams, with the words “Year 15 let’s get it!.” This caused a lot of excitement on Tuesday morning. The social media world was buzzing. Then that same morning, Williams’ agent told reporters, according to Mike Garafolo on X, “Still a few things to work through but close enough to report today.”
In the end, the San Francisco 49ers and Williams agreed to a restricted 3-year deal worth $82.66 million. It involves $48 million at signing and $25.69 million as a signing bonus, according to Elite Loyalty Sports on X. The star left tackle will make $27.65 million in cash in 2024. This is the most of any offensive lineman, according to Sports Center.
These contract negotiations began due to Williams having no guaranteed money left on his contract beginning this year. Now, the 49ers can turn their attention fully toward Monday Night Football against the New York Jets.
Trent Williams Returns to the Facility
It was a great sight to see images and videos of Williams back at 49ers practice. He even spoke to the media before the details of the agreed-upon deal were released. Williams spoke of his mindset throughout the contract negotiations.
One topic that Williams recently reflected on was the unfortunate shooting of wide receiver Ricky Pearsall. He said it was hearing the news that made him want to fly back to Santa Clara and be back with his team and be there for his guys. Williams also had high praise for Pearsall and the type of person he is, referencing Pearsall going out of his way to introduce himself to Williams. The full quote on Williams discussing Pearsall can be found here, posted by Matt Lively on X.
The future of Williams on the 49ers
Some speculation on what was taking so long with this contract is his age. Williams is currently 36, and retirement is looming. Williams did speak on how long he wishes to play for. Even Williams confirmed that for what his age is, security is important, which is why he was looking to restructure his contract. When Nick Wagoner of ESPN asked if age played a factor in these contract negotiations. Williams stated he plans to play football as long as he can. His goal is to reach 40, as long as he is still a productive player. Williams, at 36 is still playing at an All-Pro level, so this is possible. The full quote can be read here on Wagoner’s X profile.
Williams is a crucial part of this offense. The offensive line has always had its struggles, but the star left tackle is a beast blocking for both the pass and the run. With him there, Brock Purdy does not have to worry as much. He can also help rookie lineman, Dominick Puni as he has earned a starting role. The 49ers have a ton of offensive weapons, but they just got back one of the most important players on the team.
Now, the 49ers have Brandon Aiyuk, Williams, and numerous players returning from an injury. San Francisco will look to pick up where they left off, and there is more excitement with everyone back. The season kicks off this Monday, September 9th against the New York Jets.
