Trent Williams skipped the Washington Redskins’ mandatory mini-camp this past week. Initial reports suggested he wanted a new deal or a trade. However, a Jason LaCanfora report surfaced 24 hours later that Williams had a requested a trade or his release over a medical dispute with the Redskins.
One thing is for sure, Williams wasn’t there. And once again the Redskins were in the midst of a media storm, adding to their long list of circus headlines and stirring that has surrounded the franchise in recent years.
Bruce Allen, the team president, addressed the situation with Friday. However, he didn’t lend much details.
“I know what Trent told me so I know what the truth is,” Allen said Friday per JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington. “I’ll leave my conversation with Trent between the two of us.”
There could be a lot of truth to what’s going on with Williams. It could be about the contract and the medical dispute. The fact of the matter is the Redskins would be better serve to have this situation at the top of their priority list.
Williams is one of the best left tackles in the NFL. He has proven that throughout his Redskin career.
Allen not providing much detail will only add to the speculation from media and Redskins fans alike. His response to the matter certainly pales in comparison into the victory lap Allen partook following free agency and April’s NFL Draft.
“I’ve talked to Trent a few times,” Allen added. “He’s explained some things to me and I’ll leave it at that.”
Redskins head coach Jay Gruden had acknowledged Williams may be upset over the “timing of his diagnosis of the tumor” that was removed from his scalp in early spring.
Washington right tackle Morgan Moses’ comments suggested Williams was taking a stand over a medical scare.
One would hope that there is a lot of gray area in the situation, and not so straight forward as La Canfora’s report suggested, saying Williams “vowed” not to play for the Redskins again.
There is no replacing Trent Williams, especially considering the lack of depth the Redskins have at the tackle position. Williams is the most valuable player on the team. There is no debate in all honesty.
His presence protecting the left side of the offense can go a long way in the development of first-round pick Dwayne Haskins or progression of veteran Case Keenum should either get the nod to be Washington’s starting quarterback in 2019.
Just when it appeared the Redskins were turning a new page and heading into a season with their drama put behind them, this latest on Williams cast another dark cloud over the organization. Until the matter is resolved or more light in shined on the situation, Williams’ future in the burgundy and gold will be the biggest story going into next month’s training camp.
