Don't forget, Trent Williams briefly considered retirement last year after the 49ers lost in the NFC Championship. Will he actually retire this year if the 49ers win the Super Bowl?
The 49ers have to ask themselves that question, because Williams probably doesn't know the answer to it yet.
In training camp this past offseason, he told reporters he intended to take his career year by year at this point. So if the 49ers win the Super Bowl, he might consider that the best time to hang it up. We've seen Hall of Fame players retire after winning a Championship before.
Plus, Williams has earned nearly $250 million in his career. He's not hurting for money.
Still, I'd be shocked if Williams retires after this season.
Williams has three years and roughly $100 million remaining on his contract. If he plays next season, he'll pocket roughly another $30 million in cash. I imagine it's hard to walk away from that kind of payday no matter how much money you have in your bank account.
In addition, Williams doesn't have to grind as hard as other football players anymore. The 49ers already let Williams sit out OTAs, minicamp and most of training camp. Plus he doesn't practice on Wednesdays anymore either -- he gets a veteran rest day. Which means essentially he just has to show up for the regular season, practice once a week on Thursday and do a Friday walkthrough.
As long as he can play the game at a high level without practicing much, which he can do right now, there's no reason for him to walk away.
Plus, Brock Purdy won't be eligible for a contract extension until 2025. Which means the 49ers can afford Williams for at least one more year.
I expect Williams to stick around.
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