San Francisco 49ers left tackle Trent Williams recently turned 37, raising questions about his career longevity. Despite missing the final seven games of the 2024 season due to an ankle injury, Williams remains optimistic about his ability to continue playing at a high level.
Known as an 11-time Pro Bowl selection and a likely first-ballot Hall of Famer, Williams is entering the 2025 season healthy and energized, expressing confidence about his physical condition and mindset.
Williams Credits Experience for Sustained Performance
Williams shared insights into how he maintains his performance despite his age, emphasizing the importance of body care and adapting training routines. Though he acknowledges he can’t train like in his early 20s, his competitive drive remains undiminished.
“I feel good. I feel great, actually,”
Williams said after a recent practice.
“I don’t feel like a 37-year-old. Not sure what they supposed to feel like, but I feel a little younger.”
His passion for the game keeps him motivated, with Williams explaining how the feeling of competition still makes him feel like a rookie.
“When I’m in that mode, with my cleats on the grass, to me, I feel like a rookie, just because of how I approach it and how I just love to play.”
Rookie Mykel Williams Draws High Praise from the Veteran
Williams is also closely watching the development of the 49ers’ rookie defensive end Mykel Williams, who he believes has the potential to become a dominant player in the league. The veteran highlighted the rookie’s rare blend of size and versatility, which stands out on the edge.
“Mykel’s a huge dude,” Williams remarked, noting the challenge of blocking a player with
“arms as long as your legs.”
He added that Mykel has the physical tools and determination to excel in the NFL.
“He has the best coach in the league pushing him. You get to learn from some of the best guys to learn from—obviously [DE] Nick [Bosa]. I’m happy to see how he turns out. I think he’s got all the tools to be an All-Pro.”
Comparisons to Established Stars Highlight Rookie’s Potential
When asked to compare Mykel Williams to other players, Trent Williams drew a parallel with former 49ers defensive lineman DeForest Buckner, noting similarities but also unique qualities in the rookie’s game.
“Size-wise, he kind of puts you in the mind of a young DeForest Buckner,”
he said.
“But obviously, he’s a little more slight in the frame, can play the edge, can play outside, inside. So, in a sense, he does, but I think he has his own makeup that kind of makes him different as well.”
“Like I said, he’s an intriguing prospect. Just watching him for a few days, he looks promising, so just can’t wait to see where he ends up.”
Looking Ahead: What This Means for the 49ers
Trent Williams’ positive outlook on his health and performance adds reassurance for the 49ers as they prepare for the upcoming season. His leadership and experience, combined with the emergence of promising players like rookie Mykel Williams, could contribute to sustained success on both sides of the ball.
The blend of veteran resilience and youthful talent presents a hopeful scenario for the franchise’s future, especially in the competitive National Football League landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much can Trent Williams bench?
A. In 2014, Williams, who is 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 290 pounds, moved from Butler Community College in Kansas. He soon gained a reputation with his team for his strong workout skills. Williams can squat 710 pounds and bench press 510 pounds, completing 36 reps with 225 pounds.