Tremendous news for the San Francisco 49ers.
All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams revealed today that he will be returning to play in 2024 for his 14th season. When asked about his playing future, Williams answered "Oh yeah, 100 percent."
The 49ers should rejoice at this news. There was no telling if Williams would be back next year, especially with how last season ended. Williams was uncertain about his future and if he would play in 2023. He wouldn't commit to it, and his skepticism while wearing a boot for his injured ankle, painted a bleak picture. Williams clearly wants to avoid that blurriness as he confirms he will be back with the 49ers next year.
It's not strictly based off of winning the Super Bowl either. Williams is aiming for the record books, and that at all stems from accolades like being named to his 11th straight Pro Bowl.
"I'm not an emotional guy. I didn't cry or nothing, so don't go writing that, but it did take me back a little bit," said Williams. "I remember just dreaming about making my first Pro Bowl and just thinking, 'What do I have to do to get in that conversation? What do I have to do?' And then now, fast forward, I'm in my 11th straight Pro Bowl.
"And it's one of the moments where you're kind of like, you're working so hard, you're working so hard, you look back, and you're like, 'Dang, I accomplished all that.' I want to break the record for tackles, and that's a big thing for me. So I definitely dropped to my knees and thanked God because that's not promised. You can have an amazing Hall of Fame career and still don't see 11 Pro Bowls. So I'm super proud of that."
This also means the 49ers do not have to feel pressed to find his replacement yet. So, the focus will and should be on upgrading the right tackle position, then they can plan ahead for a future replacement for Williams.
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