The San Francisco 49ers are projected to move on from 37-year-old Trent Williams this offseason as Pro Football Focus has the Niners selecting a left tackle in the first round of the draft.
PFF released its latest mock draft on Monday after a slate of Sunday Week 16 games. At pick No. 25, PFF has the 49ers selecting Caleb Lomu, the starting left tackle for the University of Utah.
“Given Trent Williams’ age (37), the time is now for the 49ers to be looking for a long-term replacement at left tackle,” the article states. “Lomu earned an 82.1 PFF pass-blocking grade in 2025 and has spent more than 1,500 snaps on the left side of the line since the start of the 2024 season.”
Trent Williams under contract through 2026 season
Even with Williams continuing to perform at an elite level — he finished fifth in NFL Pro Bowl voting among tackles — timing is everything. He reworked his contract in September 2024, agreeing to a three-year, $82.66 million deal that includes a $10 million option bonus in 2026.
That’s why projecting a late first-round tackle makes so much sense for the 49ers. It’s not simply about adding talent; it’s about building leverage and creating a clear runway at the most critical position on the offensive line that protects Brock Purdy’s blindside.
Even with Williams still among the league’s best, the organization must stay ahead of the curve. The lineman is a leader in the locker room, however, and moving on will be difficult. Williams is a three-time First-Team All-Pro and an 11-time Pro Bowl selection.
The 49ers (10-4) face the Indianapolis Colts (8-6) on Monday Night Football.