Browns and Vikings Blew it After 49ers-Redskins Trade Package for Trent Williams Revealed
By Michael Luciano
The Washington Redskins finally ripped off the band-aid when they picked up a fifth-round pick in 2020 and a third-round pick in 2021 from the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for offensive tackle Trent Williams, a perennial Pro Bowler who refused to play for Washington after he believes they mishandled a serious medical condition.
After the details of the deal were revealed, the Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings have to be kicking themselves.
Trade: Washington has agreed to send Pro-Bowl OT Trent Williams to the SF 49ers in exchange for a fifth-round pick this year and a third-round pick next year, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 25, 2020
The Browns appear set at tackle given the presence of Jack Conklin and the selection of Jedrick Wills No. 10 overall, but they could have used the No. 10 pick in a trade package to move up for a player like Clemson's Isaiah Simmons if they were able to add Williams before their time to make a selection on Thursday.
The Vikings might have used a second-round pick on Ezra Cleveland, but he is a VERY raw tackle who likely won't see the field immediately. For the cost of two draft picks, they could've added a player in Williams who could supplant Riley Reiff at left tackle and help Kirk Cousins remain upright.
The #Browns were also among the teams who showed interest in Trent Williams, but did not make an offer. Other teams sniffed around, but it came down to the #Vikings and #49ers. Familiarity for Trent Williams on SF’s coaching staff.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 25, 2020
Cleveland and Minnesota were in the pole position for Williams at one point or another, but their hesitancy in giving up picks allowed a Super Bowl contender in San Francisco to snatch him right out from under their noses.