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    49ers News: Kyle Shanahan's Call was the Key to Ending Trent Williams' Holdout with the 49ers

    By Jake Faigus,

    2024-09-08

    https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=27X96H_0vOdLWzc00

    The San Francisco 49ers have successfully resolved Trent Williams' holdout by renegotiating his contract, which now includes significantly more guaranteed money.

    Williams had expressed dissatisfaction with his contract for several months, but it took the approach of the regular season for the team to address his concerns.

    A pivotal phone call from head coach Kyle Shanahan played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the two parties, According to a report by Diana Russini of The Athletic .

    Shanahan reached out to Williams just days before the season opener, emphasizing the importance of Williams' presence on the team.

    Russini's report said, "San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan dialed up his first-ballot Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams on Sunday, eight days before their season opener, and delivered a straightforward message: “We need you.”

    "Williams shares a unique bond with his head coach, who was the offensive coordinator in Washington when Williams was a rookie in 2010 — he considers Shanahan a friend. Williams responded: “You know the only way you are taking me off the field is on a stretcher. I am fully committed to giving you all of my physical and mental being if you can provide the security I need off the field for my family.”

    The men shared their feelings, gave in a little, and soon a deal was done. The last holdout of the 49ers’ dramatic offseason was over.

    Their relationship, which dates back to when Shanahan was Williams' offensive coordinator in Washington, helped facilitate a productive conversation.

    Before this call, the two had not communicated for nearly two months due to the sensitive nature of contract negotiations.

    Their only interaction during that time was at a wedding, where both maintained a cordial atmosphere despite the ongoing discussions about Williams' contract.

    With the holdout now behind them, the 49ers can focus on the upcoming season, bolstered by the return of one of the league's top left tackles.

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