It required 14 seasons for Trent Williams, the left tackle for the San Francisco 49ers, to finally reach his maiden Super Bowl appearance. Despite the potential for his career’s crowning moment with a triumph against the Kansas City Chiefs, Williams remains committed to returning for a 15th season.
In an interview with NBC Sports’ Matt Maiocco, Williams expressed his focus on the present, indicating his readiness for the upcoming years. “I haven’t thought about the end, so I know I’m definitely in for the next couple of years,” he remarked, adding, “I’ll revisit it after that.”
The prospect of clinching victory on Sunday only serves to fuel Williams’ competitive fire. He explained, “Winning on Sunday will only make me want to win another one next year. When you can achieve something that feels this good, you kind of get addicted to it, right? You want to achieve that award again. So I think that it will only make me want it more.”
Underpinning Williams’ commitment is the substantial contract he secured with the 49ers in 2021. The six-year deal, valued at over $54 million, positioned him as the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history.
Notably, the Kansas City Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, reportedly pursued Williams, underscoring his coveted status in the league.
For the 49ers, retaining Williams has proven pivotal. His consistent presence was evident as he participated in nearly every offensive snap during pivotal postseason victories over the Green Bay Packers and the Detroit Lions, propelling the team to the Super Bowl.
The stage is set for Williams and the 49ers as they prepare to square off against the Chiefs in a showdown for the Lombardi Trophy at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Sunday.