The San Francisco 49ers began mandatory minicamp Tuesday, and to no surprise, left tackle superstar Trent Williams was a full participant.
Some rumors swirled after Williams was absent from the team workouts earlier this offseason, but the veteran lineman attended the last couple days of OTAs to quiet the noise.
He is under contract, a proven leader in the locker room, and is reportedly in good health, so there shouldn't be much to worry about. He hardly comes to OTAs anyway, so an appearance - however late - is actually some nice progress.
One thing that could worry Niners Nation, however, is Williams' longevity at such a crucial position like his. The two have had tremendous success thus far, but Williams won't be able to protect quarterback Brock Purdy's blindside for his entire career- which after the QB's big-time contract extension, many believe will remain in the Bay Area.
Williams, who will turn 37 next month, is entering his 15th NFL season. For the average player, this is multiple lifetimes. Even for a future Hall of Famer like Williams is, 15 years is quite a while. Not to mention that offensive line is among the toughest places to play because of the physical demand... Trent is a veteran's veteran to say the least.
Still, his play hasn't slowed down, with three First Team All-Pros in the last four years as proof.
But Father Time is speeding up.
So, what does Williams have to say about this eventual twilight of his career?
Not much.
“I just feel like I do myself and my teammates a disservice if I’m looking toward the end,” Williams said, via 49erswebzone.com. “I’m paid. People count on me to be here now. We’ve got goals and aspirations as a team. I just don’t think putting brain power toward that helps us get to where we want to go."
For the 49ers, "where they want to go" looks a lot different than where they ended up last season. San Francisco fell to the bottom of the NFC West the season after a Super Bowl appearance. Williams himself only appeared in 10 games, which matches a career-low.
There are a lot of things to improve on in 2025, so Williams' retirement has been pushed far back in the closet of his mind.
“When [retirement] happens, it happens," he said. "I think, one day, coming in, I should know when it’s getting that time, and then, I do the responsible thing and let them know early enough so that they can make the adjustments needed.”
That day is unknown at the moment, but what we do know is that Williams is under contract for two more seasons, including this upcoming one. After 2026, he will be going on 39 years old.
40, at least right now, could be within reach.
“I would love to make it into that special group, but if it’s not in my cards,” he said. “I’m going to do everything physically possible. I’m going to stay engaged.
“It’s one of them things to where I’m going to do everything possible to play as long [as I can], and to put a good product of football out there, and then, when it’s not going my way, then I’ll know. But I could play until I’m 41. Who knows?"
Best news of all for 49ers fans? He's fueled up with motivation.
"I’m definitely not going to retire with some left in the tank."
Trent Williams wants to go "until the wheels fall off".
And there are a lot of miles left in those tires.