Cowboys could target Trent Williams if 49ers explore trade

According to reports, the San Francisco 49ers are open to trading veteran left tackle Trent Williams if contract negotiations continue to stall. The situation reportedly stems from Williams’ frustration with the ongoing negotiating process, giving the All-Pro lineman leverage as discussions drag on.

If the 49ers seriously explore a trade, could the Dallas Cowboys make a move?

Cowboys being aggressive this offseason

The Cowboys’ offseason moves suggest the front office isn’t afraid to pursue major upgrades. The Cowboys recently made a serious push to acquire Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders, reportedly offering a first-round pick, a second-round pick, and a player in an effort to land the star pass rusher.

Ultimately, the Raiders held firm, seeking two first-round picks, and Crosby was instead traded to the Baltimore Ravens. But the attempt alone revealed something different from previous years. Dallas was willing to be aggressive. That aggressiveness could become relevant if Williams truly becomes available.

After missing out on Crosby, Dallas pivoted and acquired Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers for a 2027 fourth-round pick. The move added a capable pass rusher at a relatively low cost, helping strengthen the Cowboys’ defensive front.

Still, some around the league noted the Packers appeared ready to move on from Gary regardless, raising the possibility that Dallas might have landed him for even less...or nothing. Either way, that makes the Cowboys’ next big decision even more interesting.

Would Dallas go all-in for Trent Williams?

At 36, Williams remains one of the most dominant offensive linemen in football and a cornerstone player for San Francisco. If he becomes available, multiple teams would likely explore the possibility of trading for him. The appeal is obvious for the Cowboys.

Adding a veteran of Williams’ caliber could instantly strengthen the offensive line and give the Cowboys one of the most formidable protection units in the NFL. Elite left tackles are among the hardest players to find, and Williams has been widely regarded as one of the best at the position for years.

However, a trade would come with challenges. Williams’ contract situation, the source of the current tension with the 49ers, would need to be resolved by any acquiring team. Dallas would also have to weigh the cost of a trade against the fact that Williams is nearing the later stages of his career.

If the 49ers do move forward with a trade, they could face significant roster questions of their own. The team currently lacks a clear starting replacement at left tackle, with Austen Pleasants and Brandon Parker among the options on the roster. Free agency offers limited solutions, and the NFL Draft could require San Francisco to reach for a tackle earlier than expected.

That uncertainty may ultimately determine whether the 49ers actually move Williams. But if they do, the Cowboys’ recent willingness to pursue blockbuster moves suggests Dallas could at least explore the possibility.

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