The Trent Williams holdout continues, just as the Washington Redskins are set to start their preseason Thursday. Multiple reports have suggested there is no end in sight and that Williams issues with the team are not just about money.
With that said, Williams is willing to let his holdout go into the regular season and does not intend to suit up for the Redskins anytime soon, according to JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington.
“He’s not coming back period,” a source told Finlay.
Williams appears to be taking a hard stance, digging his feet in the ground, and is not concerned with the Redskins reported plan to fine him enough to force him back to the team.
Finlay’s report is very similar to a report from 106.7 the Fan’s Craig Hoffman back on Aug. 1.
Williams skipped mandatory mini-camp in June, initiating a series of reports behind his reasoning. He did not report to training camp when it started in July, forcing Washington to place him on the reserve/did not report list.
At the heart of Williams’ issues his disapproval of the team’s front office and medical staff following a misdiagnosis of the growth on his scalp that later had to be surgically removed, and required at least two procedures this off-season.
The Redskins later signed veteran tackle Donald Penn and last year’s third-round pick Geron Christian was cleared to practice as he has recovered from his torn MCL he suffered last season. Penn and Christian are expected to compete for the starting left tackle position in the absence of Williams.
That absence is entering third week and with the preseason here, Washington may have to re-evaluate their strategy with how to handle Williams. The belief by many insiders is that a new deal with more guaranteed money would ease matters and get Williams to return to the team that drafted him in the first-round back in 2010.
Trent Williams has two years remaining on his contract that will pay him roughly $24 million, however, his salary of $12.5 million for 2020 is not fully guaranteed.
Their is belief that if not resolution is made by later this month and the Redskins are convinced that Williams would not return to the team, they could trade him. All indications are pointing to Washington facing that crossroad, as Williams is fully prepared to sit out the season.
