Sean McVay probably wasn't too enthusiastic before Saturday about facing the San Francisco 49ers, a team that swept his club in 2019, twice a year. Now, he and his coaching staff have to find a way to disrupt quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo with big-man Trent Williams anchoring one side of the offensive line.
Williams, a seven-time Pro Bowl tackle, was acquired via a trade with Washington on Saturday after Joe Staley informed 49ers decision-makers John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan this week of his intention to retire. So essentially, San Francisco went from one Pro Bowl tackle to another, not making things any easier for NFC West defenses this season.
Omar Ruiz of NFL Network reminded McVay that his friend, Shanahan, added Williams, with whom the Rams coach is very familiar from his time in Washington.
"Thanks for reminding me," McVay responded, according to Andrew Siciliano. "I need to go drink a couple of more beers."
Sean McVay, after asked by @OmarDRuiz about the Trent Williams trade:
— Andrew Siciliano (@AndrewSiciliano) April 26, 2020
"Thanks for reminding me. I need to go drink a couple of more beers."
Williams, who spent his entire career with Washington and was drafted while Shanahan was the offensive coordinator there, is excited to join the 49ers.
"I'm thankful this is over," Williams told Ian Rapoport. "Thanks to Dan (Snyder) and the organization for all they've done for me. Still a lot of love for the fans and that locker room. Now, I'm focusing on being the best player I can possibly be for the 49ers."
Shanahan sounded just as excited about the opportunity of having Williams come in and replace Staley.
"Skillset wise, Trent is similar to Joe," Shanahan told reporters on Saturday. "I mean, they're two of the most athletic guys that I have ever been around at that position, and they can run and are great for our scheme.
"He's a great dude, too. I love the guy, and I was able to talk to him today for the first time in a while and congratulate him. I know it's been a while for him going through the situation he has for the last year and a half.
"I know he's very fresh and is hungry and eager to get back to football as anyone I've ever talked to. Also, knowing the guy, I can tell how passionate he is about it."
