Why Trent Williams has some leverage over Redskins

Something to keep in mind with the star left tackle.

The standoff between the Washington Redskins and Trent Williams is one of the most interesting sagas in sports over the last year or so.

Williams missed most of last year and it seemed like he’d retire before he played for the Resdskins again. And after a brief, fleeting feeling Williams might return thanks to Ron Rivera, he’s a longshot to return again because he wants a massive contract.

J.I. Halsell, who used to work for the Redskins and is now an agent with SWAY Talent, told ESPN’s Jon Keim one point of leverage for Williams:

“The Redskins need to make a compelling [contract] proposal that makes sense for Trent to give up [free agency in 2021]. [Otherwise] if you’re Trent, why not roll the dice on yourself and wait for next offseason to have someone pay me $19 or $20 million?”

It’s an important thing to remember as Williams apparently looks to be one of the league’s highest-paid tackles.

For all the drama, Williams could merely bet on himself and wait things out another year, banking on the Redskins not continuing to hold his rights and doubly banking on another team paying up on the market.

It’s not a likely scenario — the Redskins will probably trade Williams to end this — but it’s something to keep in mind.

Thanks to this factor and others, the standoff figures to continue for some time.

[vertical-gallery id=31288]