The San Francisco 49ers have reached a new agreement with All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams, marking a significant step in addressing their offseason financial matters. Williams returned to the team on Tuesday to finalize the details of the contract, which his agency has announced.
While a few minor elements are still being finalized, this new deal represents a resolution for the 49ers’ last major financial issue of the offseason. Before this agreement, Williams had three years remaining on his contract but lacked any guaranteed compensation.
Reports indicate that the new deal will provide Williams with $48 million at signing. Overall, the contract is a three-year, $82.66 million agreement, with the $48 million serving as a signing bonus. This structure allows the 49ers to manage the financial implications over future seasons, although it does not extend the length of Williams’ contract, which remains valid through 2026.
Notably, the $48 million guaranteed sum is an NFL record for non-quarterbacks over the age of 35. Given the considerable talent disparity between Williams and the rest of the 49ers’ offensive line, securing his return was crucial as the team prepares for the season.
Discussions around the new deal intensified on Sunday night, allowing Williams a week of practice before the team’s opener against the Jets. He effectively leveraged his position, with his 2024 earnings set at $27.65 million.
Williams had previously missed the start of training camp, complicating the 49ers’ financial situation over the summer. Trade rumors surrounded teammate Brandon Aiyuk, but he ultimately signed a four-year, $120 million extension, ensuring he remains in San Francisco.
Williams, an 11-time Pro Bowler, was initially set to earn $20.9 million in 2024 under his previous contract, which had an average annual value of just over $23 million. His push for a new agreement came during an offseason when the tackle market reached new heights with significant contracts awarded to players like Tristan Wirfs, Penei Sewell, and Christian Darrisaw.
At 36, Williams has previously contemplated retirement but has expressed a desire to play until he is 40. He has earned first-team All-Pro honors in each of the last three seasons, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the 49ers’ offensive line.
In 2019, Williams sat out an entire season while trying to negotiate a new deal with Washington, ultimately leading to a trade to San Francisco. This history highlighted his willingness to hold out, raising concerns about a potential repeat this summer. However, recent updates indicated progress in contract negotiations.
As a vested veteran, Williams accrued daily fines due to his training camp holdout, totaling $5.39 million from missed camp and preseason games. Despite this financial penalty, he prioritized securing a favorable new contract, allowing the 49ers’ offense to be fully operational in time for Week 1.