It’s not a sure thing that Trent Williams will return to the Redskins in 2020, but this is certainly a step in the right direction. The left tackle touched base with new head coach Ron Rivera and the two had a “positive” conversation, according to NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport (on Twitter). 
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There are still hurdles to clear and hard feelings to be soothed, but there’s hope for a future together now that Bruce Allen is no longer in the equation. Williams has endured a lot over the years with the Redskins, but they’re the only franchise he’s ever known, and Rivera’s calm demeanor could pave the way towards the veteran staying put.
Williams missed the 2019 season after a surgery to remove a cancerous growth prevented him from playing and even putting on a helmet. When he was placed on the non-football injury (NFI) list, the Redskins opted not to pay him the remainder of his salary, taking away about $5.1MM in earnings. For Williams, the issue was about much more that football – he also accused team doctors of misdiagnosing his issue way back in 2013, putting his health in jeopardy.
Williams, who will turn 32 prior before the start of the season, graded out as Pro Football Focus’ best tackle in the NFL in 2016. He’s missed a combined 29 games over the past four seasons, but he still profiles as one of the league’s most talented and accomplished linemen.
As it stands, Williams is set to earn a $12.5MM salary in 2020.
Rivera’s calm demeanor could pave the way towards the veteran staying put.
I guess Ron’s demeanor is calm compared to Butkus but he can be a volcano if you give him cause. Tender talk isn’t going to mend the fences anyway…Williams wants the money the Redskins denied him.