According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the 49ers could ultimately release Williams if the two sides are unable find a contract resolution. Such a move would immediately elevate offensive tackle — already among the team's many needs — to one of San Francisco's top offseason priorities.
"If the two sides can't bridge their differences in their standoff, Williams would be expected to join this year's free-agent class, making him one of the premier players available," Schefter wrote.
Williams has one year and $33 million remaining on his current deal, including a $10 million option bonus that must be exercised by April 1, per Spotrac. San Francisco likely wants to see that salary — and nearly $39 million cap hit in 2026 — come down.
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From a financial standpoint, releasing Williams would create approximately $4.7 million in salary cap savings for the 49ers. However, the move would also trigger a substantial $34.5 million in dead money.
Williams played just 10 games in 2024 due to injuries. However, he started 16 in 2025, allowing 40 pressures and four sacks across 668 pass-blocking snaps.
While Williams is set to turn 38 before the 2026 season, his continued impact along the 49ers' offensive line and his status as one of the NFL's elite left tackles would make finding a new NFL home in free agency easy.
San Francisco could also attempt to trade Williams, as there would likely be some interest from other teams. Of course, age, paired with Williams' desire for a new contract and compensation for a trade, does not work in the 49ers' favor.
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