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It was previously reported that Washington left tackle Trent Williams was skipping the team’s mandatory minicamp in an effort to demand a new contract, but it looks like that isn’t exactly the case. New reports suggest that his motives have more to do with how the team dealt with a recent medical situation, and the starter is now vowing not to play for the NFC East team.
Trent Williams issues with Skins are not financial at all according to numerous sources with knowledge of the situation. He's told teammates he has demanded a trade or his release from the club due to their handling of his recent medical situation. Has vowed not to play for them
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) June 5, 2019
The seven-time Pro Bowler opted not to play in this year’s exhibition game due to injury, and had offseason surgery to remove a growth from his scalp — just the latest in what has been a growing list of ailments for Williams over the years. Between missing games for knee, elbow and thumb injuries, he hasn’t played a full 16-game season since 2013.
Williams has two more years on what was once the top-paying OL contract in the league, and carries a $14M-plus cap hit for each of the two seasons remaining. He doesn’t hold the highest-earning contract at his position anymore — and he isn’t playing like he should be either — but Washington doesn’t really have anyone else on the roster that could simply move into his role. 2018 third-round pick Geron Christian mightily struggled while filling in for Williams last season.
So, another year, another round of drama for Washington.