There haven't been any official talks between the San Francisco 49ers and left tackle Trent Williams, who was selected to his eighth Pro Bowl this week. Williams is scheduled to become a free agent in March. The 49ers would like to make sure that doesn't happen.
It sounds like the feeling is mutual for Williams. On Tuesday, the offensive lineman was asked if there have been any discussions between himself and the 49ers regarding his potential return next season.
"It's a difficult question to answer," Williams responded. "Obviously, we haven't had any conversations or talking any numbers or anything. The interest is on both sides, and like I said before, it's going to be something we have to work out around March [2021].
"I mean, I don't have the answers right now, but I do know there's interest on both sides, of course, and like I said, I would love to be here. And if the business works out the same, you'll see me for years to come, and that's what I hope happens."
Williams, 32, has started 13 games this season and is Pro Football Focus' second-highest graded tackle. While he has allowed four sacks this season, none have come in the last eight games.
Cornerback Richard Sherman recently said that he expects Williams' services to cost the 49ers somewhere in the range of $20 million annually. The offensive lineman smiled after being told that on Tuesday.
Earlier this month, Williams spoke to the media and expressed how much he loves playing for the 49ers, who acquired him via a trade in April.
"I love my teammates. I love this locker room," Williams shared. "Everything about the organization has been first class from the day I stepped in the facilities. I'm just happy. I'm happy I was able to get a fresh start. I'm happy that they believed in me after an 18-month layoff.
"To bring me in and to put me as their starting left tackle, I'm grateful for that. I couldn't think of a better place to try to start my comeback, or whatever you want to call it, than San Fran, where I have a coach who saw me cut my teeth 10, 11 years ago. So I thought it was just a perfect opportunity for me."