Sources indicate the 49ers recently submitted a revised proposal to Williams in an effort to reach closure, while the pace of talks remains contingent on how comfortable he is with the latest terms. If no agreement is reached soon, the situation could become more complicated as the draft approaches.
Under the current framework, San Francisco is reportedly prepared to guarantee about $36 million across the next two seasons and to allocate roughly $24 million to Williams in 2026. Those figures would place him among the top-paid left tackles in the league, though still shy of the annual average earned by certain peers, according to the latest discussions surrounding the contract.
As the two sides navigate this negotiation, the 49ers are also considering long-term planning at the position. A common narrative is that Williams’ eventual replacement could come via the 2026 NFL draft, where multiple highly regarded offensive tackles are projected to go in the first round. The discussion has intensified around players such as Kadyn Proctor and Caleb Lomu, who are frequently mentioned in mock drafts as potential fits for San Francisco.
In the meantime, San Francisco has been active on the draft front, conducting multiple pre-draft interviews with offensive linemen and continuing to explore options at several positions. While focus has largely centered on wide receiver and edge rushers, addressing tackle depth remains a recurring theme as the organization weighs immediate needs against longer-term planning.
The dynamic between Williams and the 49ers remains a focal point entering the draft season. If a resolution is reached, it could set the tone for Williams’ tenure with the team; if not, the 49ers may prioritize securing a long-term successor at the position while balancing cap considerations and age.
