2016 NFL Free Agency Profile: Trent Williams

Sep 14, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins tackle Trent Williams (71) blocks Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Chris Clemons (91) at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Blind side blockers are among the most coveted players in football. So it stands to reason Trent Williams is in line to make a lot of money when 2016 NFL free agency approaches. At the heart of the matter is whether the Washington Redskins are prepared to be that team to pay it.

Age: 26
4 sacks allowed (PFF)
7 hits allowed
14 pressures allowed
+10.5 rating
3x Pro Bowler

From far away, this looks like a no-brainer. Williams is in his prime as a pro and already reached three Pro Bowls. He was the highest rated offensive player on the Redskins roster. There is little reason for Washington to consider letting him out the door. Or is there?

Trent Williams is rehabbing his injured ankle and eyeing a training camp return http://t.co/OeXn4ig8KN
— Mike Jones (@ByMikeJones) June 3, 2015

Though he started 15 games last season, it ended with a bad ankle injury that required off-season surgery. While there is no reason to panic yet, it does raise a concern. Offensive linemen rely on their ankles and feet for balance and ability to anchor against pass rushers. When one of them isn’t right, it’s going to have an effect. How much of one depends on the player and the extent of the injury.

The Redskins can’t possibly know where Trent Williams sits on the fence until they get him on the field. Remember, Scot McCloughan is the new GM and he just drafted Brandon Scherff in the first round who played left tackle at Iowa. Granted, most see the rookie kicking inside to guard but that can change depending on how Williams performs in the months to come.

Likeliest Outcome: Signs extension before end of regular season

Next: NFL Power Rankings: The Top 10 Defenses

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