Imagine being a top-tier NFL offensive tackle, only to be asked to switch positions mid-career. That’s exactly what happened to Trent Williams when the Los Angeles Rams approached him five years ago. But here’s where it gets controversial: Williams recently confirmed that he turned down the Rams because they wanted him to play left guard instead of his natural tackle position. This decision, while bold, raises questions about player autonomy and team strategy—questions that still spark debate today.
Back in 2020, both the Rams and the San Francisco 49ers were vying to trade for Williams from Washington, aiming to strengthen their offensive lines. Rams head coach Sean McVay and 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan were no strangers to Williams’ talent, having worked with him in Washington. However, the Rams’ proposal came with a catch: they wanted Williams to shift from tackle to left guard to accommodate veteran Andrew Whitworth, who was nearing the end of his career. For Williams, this was a non-starter.
In a candid interview with The Athletic, Williams explained his stance: ‘They asked me to play left guard because they had Andrew Whitworth. It was his next-to-last year, and it would’ve been a tough conversation to have with him. So I’m like, “I’m not playing left guard. Not right now.” I could see it a couple of years down the line, but not then.’ Despite the Rams eventually backtracking and offering him the tackle position—even with Whitworth personally reaching out—Williams had already set his sights on San Francisco. ‘I’d already taken my mind off of them and was doing whatever I could to get to the 49ers,’ he said.
And this is the part most people miss: Williams’ decision wasn’t just about position; it was about trust and long-term vision. The 49ers, who ultimately traded a 2020 fifth-round pick and a 2021 third-rounder for him, allowed Williams to stay at tackle. The move paid off spectacularly, as he earned three first-team All-Pro selections and four Pro Bowl appearances in San Francisco. Meanwhile, the Rams stuck with Whitworth until his retirement in 2021, later turning to undrafted free agent Alaric Jackson, who has since become a cornerstone of their offensive line.
Here’s the bold question: Was Williams right to prioritize his position over team flexibility? Or should players be more open to adapting for the greater good? The Rams’ success with Jackson suggests their plan B worked out, but Williams’ stellar performance in San Francisco proves he made the right call for himself. What do you think? Let’s debate in the comments—was Williams’ decision a selfish move or a smart career choice?
