San Francisco acquired Trent Williams from Washington for a…
San Francisco acquired Trent Williams from Washington for a 2020 fifth-round pick and a 2021 third after the seven-time Pro Bowler had missed the entire 2019 season. Williams became even better with the 49ers, earning three straight first-team All-Pro selections from 2021 through 2023 and another All-Pro honor in 2025. Washington received Keith Ismael and Benjamin St-Juste, who supplied starting snaps but nowhere near Williams' value. San Francisco won decisively.
San Francisco 49ers Received
- player Trent Williams
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 2020 5th round pick (156th overall, Keith Ismael )
- pick 2021 3rd round pick (74th overall, Benjamin St-Juste)
Trade Analysis
San Francisco acquired Trent Williams during the 2020 draft after Washington's relationship with the star left tackle had broken down and Williams had sat out the entire 2019 season. The 49ers sent pick No. 156 in 2020 and a 2021 third-rounder that became No. 74. San Francisco needed an immediate replacement for retiring tackle Joe Staley and trusted Williams' familiarity with Kyle Shanahan's offense.
The result became extraordinary. Williams returned to the Pro Bowl in his first 49ers season, then earned Associated Press first-team All-Pro honors in 2021, 2022 and 2023. He remained one of the league's highest-rated tackles despite advancing into his mid-30s, allowed only one sack in 10 starts in 2024 and earned second-team All-Pro recognition in 2025 after starting 16 games. San Francisco received elite left tackle play across multiple playoff runs and reached another Super Bowl with Williams anchoring the line.
Washington used the fifth-round selection on center Keith Ismael. He appeared in 18 games for Washington over two seasons and made five starts in 2021. The 2021 third-round pick became cornerback Benjamin St-Juste, who grew into a regular starter. St-Juste played 54 games for Washington from 2021 through 2024, starting 45, and recorded 34 passes defensed with one interception before leaving after the 2024 season.
Those results give Washington more value than a simple pair of failed draft picks, but they do not approach what San Francisco acquired. St-Juste became a legitimate starter, yet Williams became a perennial All-Pro at a premium position.
San Francisco rises from B to A+. Washington moves from D+ to C+ because St-Juste did provide substantial starting volume. The verdict remains overwhelmingly in the 49ers' favor.