San Francisco 49ers left tackle Trent Williams recently celebrated his 37th birthday, sparking speculation about how much longer the 11-time Pro Bowl selection can continue playing at an elite level.
Williams, already considered a future first-ballot Hall of Famer, has little left to prove. However, after missing the final seven games of 2024 due to an ankle injury, his future remains a topic of discussion.
The good news for 49ers fans? Williams is healthy, motivated, and entering the 2025 season feeling better than ever.
"I feel good. I feel great, actually," Williams told reporters after Thursday's practice, the second of training camp. "I don't feel like a 37-year-old. Not sure what they supposed to feel like, but I feel a little younger."
Williams credits his longevity to a better understanding of how to care for his body over the years. While he admits he can't train like he did in his early 20s, his competitive fire hasn't dimmed.
"I love to compete," Williams said. "When I'm in that mode, with my cleats on the grass, to me, I feel like a rookie, just because of how I approach it and how I just love to play."
High praise for rookie Mykel Williams
Speaking of rookies, one player who has already caught Trent Williams' attention is defensive end Mykel Williams, the 49ers' first-round draft pick whom the veteran believes has the tools to become an NFL star.
"Mykel's a huge dude," Williams noted. "You generally don't see guys that size on the edge. It sucks having to base block guys with arms as long as your legs. I think he has a chance to be a really good player in this NFL. I think he has a chance to be dominant.
"He has the best coach in the league pushing him. You get to learn from some of the best guys to learn from—obviously [DE] Nick [Bosa]. I'm happy to see how he turns out. I think he's got all the tools to be an All-Pro."
When asked if Mykel Williams reminded him of anyone, Trent Williams gave a comparison sure to excite 49ers fans.
"Size-wise, he kind of puts you in the mind of a young DeForest Buckner," Williams said. "But obviously, he's a little more slight in the frame, can play the edge, can play outside, inside. So, in a sense, he does, but I think he has his own makeup that kind of makes him different as well.
"Like I said, he's an intriguing prospect. Just watching him for a few days, he looks promising, so just can't wait to see where he ends up."
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