49ers Decline $10M Option Bonus on LT Trent Williams' Contract
Cap maneuver boosts 49ers' short-term flexibility but raises questions on re-signing elite LT vital for QB protection and futures bets.
WIWire Report Intelligence·Updated Mar 20·1 min read
With today’s 4 pm ET deadline looming, the 49ers are opting not to exercise the $10 million option bonus in Trent Willia · Photo: @AdamSchefter
What happened: The San Francisco 49ers opted not to exercise the $10 million option bonus in left tackle Trent Williams' contract on March 20. This pushes his 2026 cap hit to nearly $47 million. The team still plans to re-sign him via restructure before the NFL Draft.
Why it matters: Williams remains one of the NFL's top tackles, crucial for protecting the quarterback and maintaining offensive line integrity amid 49ers' contender status. Uncertainty could influence playoff and props; past restructures show commitment despite injury history. Cap space preservation aids other roster moves in competitive NFC West.
What to watch: Watch for restructure agreement before NFL Draft to avert holdout. Monitor 49ers' OT draft plans and cap transactions.