Trent Williams Rumors: Colts Linked to 49ers FA OT After Carson Wentz Trade

The Indianapolis Colts could target tackle Trent Williams as they look to build an offensive line around Carson Wentz.

Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported the Colts are a "sleeper team" if Williams leaves the 49ers in free agency.  Anthony Castonzo retired in January, leaving a massive hole at left tackle for Indianapolis.

Williams is expected to be one of the top free agents on the open market after returning to form in 2020 with the 49ers. The eight-time Pro Bowler did not miss a beat after sitting out the 2019 season amid a dispute with the Washington Football Team caused in part by an offseason procedure on a cancerous growth on his head.

San Francisco acquired Williams for a 2021 third-round pick and 2020 fifth-round selection, and the move immediately paid dividends. Williams was one of the highest-graded offensive linemen in the NFL, earning a 91.9 overall mark from Pro Football Focus. He served as one of the few bright spots in a frustrating season for the 49ers offense.

General manager John Lynch has reportedly been working hard on reaching a long-term deal with Williams ahead of free agency. Williams has maintained the 49ers are his first choice. 

"San Francisco would be the leading candidate regardless," Williams told reporters in January. "So even if it does make it to free agency, it won't be because I'm trying to go somewhere else. It may be simply because I want to see my value.

“It's been 11 years in this league, and I have yet to see a franchise left tackle go to the open market. I think it would be interesting to kind of see what (my) value holds."

The 49ers have $30.7 million in available cap space, so money should not be a problem. However, the team is looking to address several other holes on the roster and might find itself penny-pinching if it breaks the bank on Williams. The Colts have $45.9 million in cap space.