According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, the San Francisco 49ers engaged in contract discussions with left tackle Trent Williams last week. The writer describes the talks as "extensive," explaining that coming to an agreement before the regular season's final weekend would have helped the 49ers' salary cap situation.
While the discussions didn't result in a new contract for the eight-time Pro Bowl selection, it sends a clear message that re-signing Williams is among the team's top priorities.
#49ers and Pro Bowl LT Trent Williams had extensive discussions last week on a contract extension, per sources. Doing something before Week 17 would have helped SF's salary cap. It didn't happen, and an elite tackle could hit free agency, but SF is clearly prioritizing Williams
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) January 7, 2021
Williams admitted this week that returning to the 49ers is his preferred outcome to this offseason. However, he is curious about his free-agency value.
"It's been 11 years in the league," Williams told reporters. "I have yet to see a franchise left tackle go to the open market. I think it would be interesting to kind of see what the value holds. Regardless, like I said, I've always maintained the same thing. I think San Francisco is my number one destination, and we'll see how things work out."
San Francisco acquired Williams last April via a trade with Washington. While he allowed four sacks this season, according to Pro Football Focus, none came after Week 5. Williams finished the season as Pro Football Focus' highest-graded tackle and second-highest-graded offensive lineman.