Forty-Niners' Top Priority: Retaining Trent Williams

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Trent Williams stands out as a vital left tackle for the San Francisco 49ers, even in his

mid-30s.

The team relies on him to protect quarterback Brock Perty's blind side and keep the offense

running smoothly.

Right now though, they have not locked him into a new contract, making it a top priority

this off-season.

ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell highlighted this in a recent piece, calling it the most critical

move the 49ers need to make.

Without Williams, whether through retirement, a holdout, or leaving the team, their left

tackle spot will look pretty grim.

Fans and experts alike see the huge impact of keeping an elite player like the 12-time

pro-bola.

The 49ers traded for him years ago to block a move to the Kansas City Chiefs, then made

him the highest-paid lineman ever.

Getting that kind of talent could hurt big time up front.

Barnwell suggests a smart path forward, like paying close to the $21,900,000 Williams earned

last year.

Guaranteeing $25,000,000 in 2026 and $30,000,000 in 2027, could seal the deal, especially

with no real replacement on the market.

The 49ers still have time this off-season to work it out.

Finding common ground would protect their line and set them up strong for the future.

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