The Minnesota Vikings and the Washington Redskins were close to a deal that would have sent seven-time Pro Bowl left tackle Trent Williams to Minnesota. However, talks fell through, according to ESPN’s John Keim.
The Vikings pulled away and chose Boise State offensive tackle Ezra Cleveland in the second round with the 58th overall pick. Initially, the Vikings appeared to opt for the younger and cheaper option. Yet, they may have got some help to turn them to the decision not to go with Williams in a trade.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Williams made it known he preferred not to play for the Vikings, effectively nixing the trade.
āAt some point over the course of the day, Williams made it known that he would rather not go to the Minnesota Vikings,ā Rapoport said. āEssentially, that ended the trade right there. The Vikings took it into their hands, and they took someone they believe is their tackle of the future.ā
According to Keim, the San Francisco 49ers have shown interest in Williams, but their interest is predicated on the future of aging left tackle Joe Staley. Williams played under 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan in Washington.
It’s unclear why Williams did not want to play for the Vikings. His decision halted him reuniting with Minnesota quarterback Kirk Cousins. The two were teammates from 2012-2017.
The Redskins entered the draft looking to move the disgruntled Williams, ending a relationship that soured in 2019. However, Williams’ market dwindled as six offensive tackles were taken in Thursday’s first round. The Cleveland Browns, New York Jets and Tampa Bay Buccaneers each bowed out of interest in Williams by selecting tackles in the opening round.
The Vikings left the table on Day 2, and now the Redskins are left searching for another round of alternatives.
