Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that Williams did not report to training camp, confirming that the offensive lineman's absence is contract-related. Williams is subject to mandatory $50,000 in daily fines until he reports to the 49ers.
Shanahan noted that contract discussions with Williams have been ongoing for a while now.
"It was something I knew could be a possibility," Shanahan said. "I mean, I was hoping that he would be here, but I knew it could be a possibility, and I feel pretty confident that it'll all work out in the long run, and he'll be here, and we'll get on the same page with everything. But it's just one day of practice, and I think Trent will be all right missing a few practices."
Earlier this offseason, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that there were "whispers around some in the industry" suggesting Williams might eventually seek a new deal.
At 36, Williams remains a highly effective player, earning the second-highest regular-season grade (89.9) from Pro Football Focus among all offensive linemen last season. Only Detroit Lions tackle Penei Sewell had a higher overall grade at 90.7.
When asked if Williams' absence is concerning, linebacker Fred Warner declared, "Of course. Shoot, that's one of our best players, one of our leaders. But we understand the business side of it. This isn't our first rodeo. This is a curse and a blessing to have this many great players a part of our team. And so, we'll get it figured out."
Williams allowed only 18 pressures and no sacks last season, solidifying his status as the 49ers' top offensive lineman. His performance earned him his 11th Pro Bowl selection and third first-team All-Pro nod. He signed a six-year, $138.06 million contract in 2021, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in the league at that time. Williams is signed through the 2026 season.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers vs. Raiders final injury report: 3 receivers ruled out for Week 9
The San Francisco 49ers are preparing for their Week 9 contest against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Both teams have released their official injury reports, which are provided below. San Francisco 49ers Out WR Mike Evans (ribs,... -
49ers work out 8 defensive players ahead of Raiders matchup
According to the NFL transaction report, the San Francisco 49ers worked out eight defensive players ahead of their Week 9 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders at Levi's Stadium. The group includes five defensive linemen and three defensive backs as San Francisco evaluated... -
49ers insider expects injured receiver to be done for the season
The San Francisco 49ers placed wide receiver Christian Kirk on injured reserve Saturday after he suffered a meniscus injury. The move will force him to miss at least the next four games, beginning with Sunday's matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. However, Matt Maiocco of... -
49ers' John Lynch explains why Jauan Jennings trade fell through
On Wednesday, head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed reports that Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jauan Jennings had turned down an opportunity to return to the San Francisco 49ers via trade. However, Shanahan's explanation suggested the situation was less about Jennings rejecting...