The Washington Redskins did not trade Trent Williams before of during the first round of the NFL Draft, and that could be an indication that they are planning to let the tense situation with their All-Pro left tackle drag out even further. However, there are reportedly still teams that are interested in acquiring Williams.
The Cleveland Browns are said to have been exploring a way to trade for Williams prior to the start of the draft, but they selected Alabama star offensive lineman Jedrick Wills with the 10th overall pick. That likely takes the Browns out of the running for Williams, but Julie Donaldson of NBC Sports Washington reported on Thursday night that there are still suitors for the seven-time Pro Bowler.
I am told there are still trade partners for Trent Williams. Redskins were expecting the Browns to take a Tackle, it was a matter if CLE was able to get who they wanted. Tampa Bay was never a contender. So, I continue with another… stay tuned. #httr #redskins
— Julie Donaldson (@JDonaldsonNBCS) April 24, 2020
According to ESPN’s Courtney Cronin, the Minnesota Vikings are one of those suitors. The Vikings reportedly offered Washington a mid- or late-round pick for Williams leading up to the draft, and they remain interested.
feel very much in the race to land the left tackle. They have the draft capital to do it, with 12 picks for Days 2/3. But there are still a couple unknowns. Many of you have sent me questions about how the Vikings can afford Williams? Yes, they'd have to make space for him on the
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) April 24, 2020
at safety, so he might be off the table. The question remains: will Williams play on his current contract where he's set to earn $12.5 million in 2020? If WAS doesn't feel like they're getting adequate compensation for a 7x Pro Bowler, they could let this drag out longer.
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) April 24, 2020
If the Redskins were hoping to get a first-round pick in this year’s draft for Williams, but that window has obviously closed. They could still accept a lower pick for him or one or more picks from a future draft. If Washington is banking on Williams reporting to work this year to play under new head coach Ron Rivera, it sounds like they are going to end up disappointed.
