With the expiration of the deadline for the franchise label, there is a new fluctuation at the top of the boards for free agents.
Gregg Rosenthal’s top 101 free agents of 2021 for NFL.com currently have the attack on San Francisco 49ers that Trent Williams on the no.
With few offensive tackles hitting the open market and an urgent need for a position in the landscape, Williams is able to surpass David Bakhtiari’s top contract for left tackles, even though he is two years older.
The 32-year-old Williams indicated that a return to San Francisco could be his first choice.
Williams joined the Cris Collinsworth Podcast along with Niners teammates Richard Sherman and George Chahrouri. When Sherman suggests returning to San Francisco after Williams, the left-wing attack disagrees.
“I have San Francisco. I kept him in San Francisco for the believers,” Sherman said via Pro Football Talk. “I think he lives in San Francisco. I think he makes you happy for another 5-6 years and gets his gold jacket and then decides if he wants it in Washington or San Francisco.”
Williams replied, ‘It’s not bad, fellows. This is not bad. You are barking at the right tree. ‘
Williams was traded to the Niners from Washington last year after being suspended for the 2019 season due to a dispute with the organization over health issues.
Even at 32, Williams remains one of the best blockers in the NFL. A return to Kyle Shanahan’s team makes a lot of sense. The Niners will be left with a big hole left when the annual Pro Bowler leaves and Williams looks comfortable with the club.
The 49ers have a fair amount of projected headroom, compared to many teams in the league, to keep Williams in the city. Eventually, however, the money will speak. For the top player who goes to free agency, a solid payday should be on the way, even if the salary limit increases.