Williams, 37, isn’t just still playing; he’s thriving in a way that underscores Bennett’s point. He earned Second-Team AP All-Pro honors for the 2025 season, adding to a career that includes 12 Pro Bowls and 203 starts, keeping him at the center of San Francisco’s offense whenever he’s available. 💪🏆
Health is the key wrinkle. Williams missed the regular-season finale against Seattle with a hamstring issue but returned for the Wild Card round and now appears set to play in the divisional round. Seattle’s injury report even notes that Williams “will have left tackle Trent Williams” for the game, reinforcing how pivotal his status is to the 49ers’ plan. 🏥➡️🕹️
Looking at the matchup, Williams is the swing factor against a relentless Seattle front. The Seahawks allowed an NFL-best 17.2 points per game and generated 47 sacks this season, while the 49ers gave up 27 sacks and average about 25.7 points per game. Williams’ job is to protect Brock Purdy on the blind side as Seattle’s pressure tries to disrupt San Francisco’s offense. 🛡️⚡
The game is set for Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. ET at Lumen Field on FOX. Beyond Williams, the 49ers also face defensive injuries with Fred Warner ruled out, though WR Ricky Pearsall is optimistic he’ll play. Bennett’s bold take about Williams being the last great at his position frames this matchup as a prime stage for Williams to prove the point. If he can anchor the line in this hostile environment, he would be a defining example of the era’s elite linemen. 📅🎯
