Trent Williams’ 12th Pro Bowl Nod Is a Painful Reminder of What Washington Let Slip Away
There are trades that sting. Then there are trades that leave a scar so deep, it becomes part of a franchise’s identity. The Washington Commanders' decision to move on from Trent Williams falls squarely in the latter category - a move that continues to haunt the organization years later, especially now, as Williams adds a record-setting 12th Pro Bowl selection to his résumé.
Let’s be clear: Trent Williams isn’t just still playing at a high level - he’s redefining what longevity and dominance look like at left tackle. He’s been the anchor of a San Francisco 49ers offensive line that’s weathered injuries and adversity all season, and yet remains a legitimate threat in the postseason.
That’s no coincidence. Williams has been a tone-setter, a technician, and a force - exactly what Washington needed then, and still hasn’t fully replaced.
Former head coach Jay Gruden didn’t mince words recently, acknowledging what fans have known for years: trading Williams was a massive mistake. At the time, the Commanders received a modest return - center Keith Ismael and cornerback Benjamin St-Juste.
Neither has come close to matching the impact of the player they gave up. In fact, in terms of value lost versus value gained, it’s one of the most lopsided trades the league has seen in recent memory.
But the trade itself was just the final chapter in a long, mishandled saga. The way Washington dealt with Williams’ health concerns - and his dissatisfaction with the organization’s response - was emblematic of a front office in disarray.
Rather than working to mend the relationship with one of their most respected players, the team opted to cut ties and accept the first viable offer. The result?
A future Hall of Famer walked out the door, and Washington was left scrambling for answers at one of the most important positions in football.
Since then, Williams has only elevated his legacy. He’s continued to stack accolades and dominate the edge like few in NFL history.
Meanwhile, Washington has tried to stabilize its offensive line, most recently by trading for Laremy Tunsil - a move that has brought some much-needed talent to the position. But with Tunsil’s contract set to expire in 2026, general manager Adam Peters will need to ensure he locks down the left tackle spot long-term.
If Tunsil is the answer, they can’t afford to fumble the ball again.
The Commanders are entering a pivotal offseason. After a promising 2024 campaign that saw them reach the NFC Championship Game, the team took a step back in 2025.
The roster has holes, the quarterback situation needs clarity, and the margin for error is shrinking. This is the kind of offseason that demands bold decisions and a clear vision - something that’s finally possible now that the Dan Snyder era is in the rearview.
And that’s where the Trent Williams trade still lingers - not just as a reminder of what was lost, but of how far this franchise has come in terms of leadership and direction. The dysfunction that once defined the Commanders is no longer the norm.
But the consequences of that dysfunction? They’re still being felt.
Williams’ latest Pro Bowl nod is a celebration of individual greatness - and a sobering reminder of a franchise misstep that won’t be forgotten anytime soon.