San Francisco 49ers star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk reported to training camp but is not practicing without a new long-term contract, but he isn’t the franchise’s only star not taking part in early camp practices.
All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams is officially holding out as training camp begins, and is officially subject to daily fines for each day he is away from the facility.
#49ers coach Kyle Shanahan tells reporters that Pro Bowl LT Trent Williams is not practicing for contract reasons, as he joins Brandon Aiyuk among SF players wanting a raise.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 24, 2024
As NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo points out, Williams is set to make $20.8 million this season, and $23.35 million in 2025.
Breaking Down Trent Williams’ Contract Situation
Williams remains one of the premier offensive tackles in the sport, and is coming off a 2023 campaign in which he didn’t surrender a sack and only allowed three quarterback hits, according to Pro Football Focus.
This offseason, Detroit Lions tackle Penai Sewell reset the market at the position, fetching $28 million annually on his new contract.
It is understandable that Williams would look to become one of the highest-paid players at the position, even at age 36. However, the 49ers also need to find some sort of resolution to Deebo Samuel’s uncertain future, Aiyuk’s contract situation and will likely make Brock Purdy one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league this upcoming offseason.
According to Spotrac, the 49ers are currently $4 million over the cap, so signing Williams to an extension to lower his cap number this season (which is currently $31.56 million) would be ideal for San Francisco. However, given Williams’ age, it’s uncertain just how far out the 49ers would feel comfortable committing to the four-time All-Pro.
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