Could one of the greatest left tackles of all time enter free agency in March? Trent Williams is healthy this season, and it’s showing. The 49ers think Williams, 37, is having one of his best months in recent memory. But his massive 2026 cap hit of $38.8 million is approaching. That’s second on the team behind pass rusher Nick Bosa ($42 million), who is 28 and unlikely to go anywhere. Meanwhile, Williams — who’s a 2027 free agent — has said he’s open to playing until age 40. If that’s still the case, the 49ers have a decision to make: Give an elite but aging player a market deal (hint: it’s not a small market), stand pat and ride out the cap hit, or entertain a player release or trade. Williams is a fixture in San Francisco, so perhaps it can work something out. But it’s not lost on the player that this decision is looming and something most likely must be done. Williams’ current contract includes $22.2 million in base salary and a $10 million option bonus due April 1.
