Trent Williams Drops to No. 45 in NFL Top 100 Despite Stellar Season at 37

San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Trent Williams has once again appeared on the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL’s Top 100 players list for 2025, though he has dropped to No. 45. Despite the team’s disappointing 6-11 finish in the 2024 season, Williams continued to deliver an outstanding individual performance, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier linemen.

Trent Williams’ Enduring Excellence at Age 37 Highlights His Value to the 49ers

The NFL annually releases a Top 100 players ranking, and Williams has now been featured for the twelfth time in his career. At 37 years old and in his 14th NFL season, Williams’ consistent excellence earned his place despite a ranking lower than in previous years. He was rated 14th in both 2022 and 2023 and reached as high as seventh last year.

During the 2024 season, Williams started 10 games and allowed just a single sack, demonstrating his continued dominance on the offensive line. Even while managing injuries and personal challenges, he remained a key figure for the 49ers. His career includes four First-Team All-Pro selections and 11 Pro Bowl appearances, underscoring his exceptional skill and veteran leadership.

Williams Defies Age With His Passion and Commitment to the Game

Entering his 16th NFL season and sixth with San Francisco, Williams spoke candidly about his physical condition and mindset at training camp. Reflecting on his fitness and enthusiasm, he said,

“I feel good. I feel great, actually,”

and

“I don’t feel like a 37-year-old. Not sure what they supposed to feel like, but I feel a little younger.”

He also emphasized his competitive spirit, stating,

“I love to compete. 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.”

Williams has expressed a goal to extend his career until age 40, which bodes well for the 49ers and their supporters who value his contributions. He elaborated on this ambition, saying,

“I would love to make it to that special group,”

and emphasized his dedication to maintaining his health and performance, also noting,

“I could play until I’m 41, you know, who knows? But that is a goal of mine. I’m definitely not going to retire with something left on the table.”

His recent participation in offseason training activities, a rarity for him in the last decade, indicates a renewed commitment to staying engaged and physically prepared for the challenges ahead.

Looking Ahead: What Williams’ Future Means for the 49ers

Williams’ resilience and determination signal a promising outlook for the 49ers’ offensive line. His presence brings more than skill—it adds veteran insight and leadership in a team aiming to improve after a tough season. While the drop in his NFL Top 100 ranking introduces uncertainty about his standing among the league’s best, his ongoing performance and desire to compete suggest he remains a valuable asset as the 49ers rebuild and pursue success in upcoming seasons.