The Scouting Combine and labor negotiations has the main focus of the NFL currently, however, the Washington Redskins continue to work towards resolving issues with disgruntled left tackle Trent Williams. Head coach Ron Rivera confirmed he had positive talks in a face-to-face meeting with Williams.
However, according to Les Carpenter of The Washington Post, “financial issues” remain as the biggest hurdle between Williams returning to the Redskins.
Williams held out training camp, preseason and the first 10 weeks of the 2019 season. At the height of Williams’ ire was the perceived mishandling of a cancerous growth on his scalp by the Redskins training staff.
Following a 3-13 season, the team went under a complete overhaul, starting with the hiring of Rivera. From there with essentially control of football operations, Rivera and owner Dan Snyder cleaned house throughout the front office, coaching and training staff.
That included the dismal of longtime team president Bruce Allen and head trainer Larry Hess — two figures whom had strained relationships with Williams.
Williams Seeking More Guaranteed Money
As Rivera has put his best foot forward towards wooing Williams back, the seven-time Pro Bowler presumably is in search of more guaranteed money.
Williams is entering the final year of a five-year deal worth $66 million. He is owed $12.5 million in 2020, but none of the money is guaranteed — a standard practice by the Redskins’ previous regime.
It’s safe to assume a contract extension that with guaranteed money in 2020 and 2021 (at the very least) would close the deal between both sides.
Quinton Dunbar, Ryan Kerrigan Can Relate
On the end of contract matters, Williams’ situation is similar to both cornerback Quinton Dunbar and pass rusher Ryan Kerrigan.
Dunbar has reportedly requested his trade or release after talks with Rivera did not go as well he liked. Dunbar is owed a non-guaranteed $3.25 million in 2020, his final year of his deal.
Kerrigan is a cap casualty candidate. After releases of aging veterans Josh Norman and Jordan Reed, Kerrigan’s standing with the Redskins is highly questionable. He is owed $11.5 million in the final year of his deal, which is not guaranteed as well.
As the Redskins new regime reshapes the roster, settling issues with Williams is the top priority. After that all other matters can fall in place, including if the Redskins opt to draft Ohio State pass rusher Chase Young.
