According to an ESPN report, Washington offensive tackle Trent Williams struck down a trade that would have sent him to the Minnesota Vikings on Friday.
While Williams and his agent, Vince Taylor, denied the report, both ESPN’s Courtney Cronin and John Keim had confirmed that both the Redskins and Vikings were informed that Williams did not want to play in Minnesota.
That report was echoed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, who said a deal was on the verge of completion a but Williams declined citing his familiarity with San Francisco’s coaching staff. Williams also declined with the condition he would also receive an extension had he been traded to the Vikings. With the 49ers deal, he will not be extended.
The #Browns were also among the teams who showed interest in Trent Williams, but did not make an offer. Other teams sniffed around, but it came down to the #Vikings and #49ers. Familiarity for Trent Williams on SF’s coaching staff.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 25, 2020
The #Vikings felt like they were in position to do a similar deal — leading with a fourth this year instead of a fifth next year — but Trent Williams said he didn't want to do it. SF was waiting. https://t.co/MOcoB3sp6f
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 25, 2020
With the deal to the 49ers, Williams will be reunited with head coach Kyle Shanahan who served as Washington’s offensive coordinator from 2010 to 2013.
The Vikings and Williams have been connected in the weeks leading up to the draft and ESPN’s report said the Vikings had originally offered a Day 3 pick in exchange for the Pro Bowl left tackle.
As the Redskins ran out of suitors on Friday, the Vikings bumped up their offer to include a second Day 3 pick but were then informed of Williams’ lack of desire to play for the team.
The Vikings selected Boise State offensive tackle Ezra Cleveland with the 58th overall pick on Friday night.
