Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch have successfully worked together for years now as the head coach and general manager, respectively, of the San Francisco 49ers.
The duo is preparing to go on another run in 2026, but first, star left tackle Trent Williams’ contract situation needs to be figured out. Over the weekend, Shanahan revealed that he’s not worried and expects Lynch to get it straightened out.
Why Kyle Shanahan Wants Trent Williams Back in 2026
Williams has been with the 49ers since 2020. In that time, the elite tackle has earned three first-team All-Pro selections, five Pro Bowl selections, and an elite 89.1 grade from PFSN’s OL Impact metric in 2025.
Williams will turn 38 this summer, but he already stated he plans to keep playing. However, last week the 49ers declined Williams’ $10 million option bonus, which means the veteran will now carry a cap hit of nearly $47 million in 2026.
That’s not an ideal situation, but Shanahan doesn’t seem too concerned.
“No updates from me,” Shanahan said when asked if there were any new developments with Williams. “I actually stay pretty much out of that. I know John [Lynch] and everyone’s working hard to do that. I believe they’ll get that done. We love Trent too much, and eventually that’ll work out.”
That’s a fair response from the coach. Shanahan is focused on preparing his guys for the upcoming season, and he trusts Lynch, considering he’s proven to be one of the best general managers in the league.
Williams is currently under contract through just 2026 and could be a free agent next offseason. The lineman’s camp reportedly wants more guaranteed money and years added, and the 49ers could reduce his massive cap hit by restructuring.
Only four teams allowed fewer sacks than the 49ers last season, and Williams was a major reason for that. Both sides clearly want to find a solution, so it would be shocking to see Williams suit up for anybody else.
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How the 49ers Plan to Contend in the Tough NFC West in 2026
After the Williams situation is resolved, the 49ers can focus on preparing for the 2026 season. The team is hoping to contend again, despite playing in one of the toughest divisions in the league.
In 2025, the 49ers went 12-5 and made it to the divisional round of the playoffs. Under Shanahan, the 49ers have appeared in two Super Bowls, losing both. The team made some solid additions this offseason, like wide receiver Mike Evans and defensive lineman Osa Odighizuwa, in a bid to finally get over that hump.
