The San Francisco 49ers are actively planning for life beyond Trent Williams, their veteran left tackle, who is approaching retirement. As the team navigates salary cap challenges following Brock Purdy’s contract extension this offseason, the 49ers have had to move notable veterans to manage finances. Despite retaining key components around Purdy, addressing the future of the offensive line has become urgent due to Williams’ age and uncertain longevity. In response, analysts are connecting the 49ers to Austin Barber, a standout offensive lineman from Florida, as a potential early solution in the 2026 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL Draft.
Challenges Facing the 49ers Without Trent Williams
The previous NFL season was difficult for San Francisco, as injuries to crucial players, including Christian McCaffrey and multiple defensive starters, led to a disappointing six-win record, a stark contrast to their Super Bowl runner-up finish the year before. The offensive line, a critical unit for protecting the quarterback and facilitating the run game, was also significantly impacted by injuries and inconsistency. According to PFSN’s offensive line performance metric, the team ranked 15th overall, but the loss of Trent Williams during the season exposed vulnerabilities. The line surrendered poor blocking grades in four of the seven games following Williams’ injury, an issue the team cannot afford to repeat once he retires.
Now 37, Williams’ retirement is considered imminent, pressing the 49ers to plan ahead. This has led to speculation in recent mock drafts, such as the one by PFSN, which positions Austin Barber as the team’s prime prospect to replace one of the best linemen in the game.
Austin Barber: The Ideal Candidate to Anchor the Offensive Line
Brentley Weissman, an NFL draft analyst, highlights the clear need for San Francisco to secure a franchise left tackle soon. Weissman insists the team has limited alternatives behind Williams, making the acquisition of a promising successor a top draft priority. Barber, known for his versatile blocking ability and exceptional athleticism, fits the profile of a durable, high-potential player primed to succeed in the NFL.
“San Francisco will soon have to prepare for life without Trent Williams. He very well could retire after this season, and the team has very few options behind him. If Williams does indeed choose that path, adding a franchise left tackle will be a priority for them in the draft.”
—Brentley Weissman, NFL Draft Analyst
Barber’s two seasons at Florida have demonstrated his capacity to excel in both pass protection and run blocking. His technical skills, combined with a strong understanding of positional responsibilities, make him a reliable choice for a left tackle role, which demands both power and agility.
“Florida’s Austin Barber is an excellent athlete who has proven to be a winning player in the SEC. He offers good balance, power, and hand use — all while showcasing an impressive ability to mirror in pass protection. He would be an excellent insert at left tackle to protect Brock Purdy’s blind side.”
—Brentley Weissman, NFL Draft Analyst
Prominent draft observer Benjamin Hodge also praised Barber, noting his consistent performance across multiple facets of offensive line play and his athleticism, which raises his value as a “high floor prospect.” Barber’s blend of skill sets and dependability signals his readiness to take on demanding NFL responsibilities as a potential replacement for Williams.
“Austin Barber was a tackle that I liked a lot. He’s at least average at pretty much everything and is a plus athlete. Super high floor prospect that understands the position well.”
—Benjamin Hodge, NFL Draft Analyst
Looking Ahead: What Barber’s Selection Could Mean for the 49ers
Losing a player of Trent Williams’ caliber would be a significant setback for San Francisco, but the front office, led by general manager John Lynch, has a history of strategizing effectively for the future. With Barber’s profile as a sturdy athlete and skilled blocker, he represents a hopeful option to maintain the strength and stability of the 49ers’ offensive line for years to come. Securing a talented left tackle who can protect Brock Purdy’s blind side will be essential for the franchise’s aspirations to return to championship contention and sustain offensive efficiency.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much can Trent Williams bench?
A. In 2014, Williams moved from Butler Community College in Kansas. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 290 pounds, he quickly gained a reputation among his new teammates for his strong work ethic. He can squat 710 pounds and bench press 510 pounds, which includes 36 repetitions at 225 pounds.