Redskins Trade Rumors: Trent Williams Given Permission to Explore Market

Washington has granted left tackle Trent Williams permission to test the trade market, according to ESPN's Dianna Russini. 

"Redskins have gotten calls about trades for Trent Williams in the past," NBC Sports' JP Finlay added. "The Browns openly admitted that last season. This is much different, however, as it lets Trent's agent try to work a deal with a new team."

NFL Network's Mike Garafolo relayed last week that Williams informed Washington he either wanted a new deal or to be traded:

"Trent is excited to resume his Pro Bowl career with a team interested in a player of his stature," Vincent Taylor, Williams' agent, told The Athletic's Ben Standig. "We really appreciate and respect [team owner] Dan Snyder for the chance to seek another opportunity. This isn't about a contract, but time for a change of scenery."

Williams confirmed to WUSA 9's Darren M. Haynes that he's "relieved" to be allowed to seek a trade following Russini's report:

If that wasn't clear enough, Williams responded to a text from the Washington Post's Les Carpenter asking if he is done in Washington with "pretty much."

Williams is entering the final season of a five-year, $68 million contract. Per Spotrac, the 2010 fourth overall pick is owed $12.5 million in base salary with a $14.5 million cap hit. 

Williams did not play last season. The 31-year-old ended his holdout by reporting to Washington in late October—a move to avoid missing an entire season's worth of pay—but held strong in his intention to not suit up for the team.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported in early April that Willams had undergone a procedure to remove a growth or tumor on his head. That proved to be the crux of the seven-time Pro Bowler's anger toward Washington:

Williams addressed how he felt the team's medical staff mishandled his health scare when meeting with reporters in late October, once he had formally reported:

Washington's management underwent an overhaul this offseason, as team president Bruce Allen was fired after 10 years with the franchise, and Ron Rivera was hired as the team's new head coach on New Year's Eve. Those changes were at one point believed to be enough to retain Williams:

Not anymore.

As for what could be next, ESPN's Field Yates singled out Cleveland as an attractive destination because Bill Callahan, Williams' former position coach, is the offensive line coach for the Browns.