Trent Williams Injury Update: What Happened vs Bears?

Trent Williams left the San Francisco 49ers’ game against the Chicago Bears on December 29 after suffering a right hamstring injury on the first play from scrimmage. The All-Pro left tackle did not return and was ruled out at halftime.

The injury occurred during a game-opening interception return when Williams tried to chase down Chicago linebacker T.J. Edwards. He limped off the field and was evaluated in the medical tent.

Trent Williams injury update and game details

The incident happened on Sunday night in Santa Clara, California. On the first offensive snap, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy threw an interception that was returned for a touchdown. Williams sprinted in pursuit and immediately grabbed at his right leg.

Williams exited the field under his own power but was clearly limited. He went directly to the blue medical tent for evaluation. San Francisco listed him as questionable before later ruling him out at halftime.

Austen Pleasants replaced Williams at left tackle on the next possession. The 49ers did not provide immediate details on the severity of the hamstring injury after the game.

According to the Associated Press, Williams was dealing with a right hamstring issue and did not see any further action. The team has not announced whether additional imaging will be required.

Williams is a cornerstone of the 49ers’ offensive line. He was recently selected to his 12th Pro Bowl, tying him for the second-most Pro Bowl selections by an offensive lineman in NFL history.

Despite his absence, San Francisco’s offense remained productive early. The 49ers scored four touchdowns from scrimmage in the first half while adjusting their protection schemes without their veteran left tackle.

The coaching staff did not comment postgame on a possible return timeline. Hamstring injuries can vary widely depending on the grade and location of the strain.

What the injury means for the 49ers going forward

Williams’ availability is critical for San Francisco’s offense. He anchors pass protection on the blind side and plays a key role in the team’s run-blocking schemes.

If Williams misses time, the 49ers may need to rotate linemen or adjust their play-calling. This could include quicker passing concepts and added help from tight ends or running backs.

San Francisco has dealt with offensive line injuries at various points this season. Losing Williams, even short term, places added pressure on depth players and the interior line.

The team is expected to provide a more detailed update later in the week. Practice participation and the official injury report will offer the clearest indication of Williams’ status.

For now, the focus remains on evaluation and recovery. The 49ers will proceed cautiously given Williams’ importance and his recent Pro Bowl selection.

Trent Williams injury update remains day to day as the 49ers await further medical clarity. His status will be closely watched ahead of the next game.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Trent Williams?

Trent Williams injured his right hamstring on the first play against the Bears. He was hurt while chasing an interception return and was ruled out at halftime.

Q2: Did Trent Williams return to the game?

No, Williams did not return after leaving early. Austen Pleasants replaced him at left tackle for the rest of the game.

Q3: What injury did Trent Williams suffer?

The 49ers listed the injury as a right hamstring issue. The team has not yet announced the severity.

Q4: How important is Trent Williams to the 49ers?

Williams is one of the NFL’s top offensive linemen and a 12-time Pro Bowl selection. He is vital to both pass protection and the run game.

Q5: When will the 49ers give another update?

Further updates are expected during the week through practice reports and official injury listings.

References

Associated Press | 49ers’ Trent Williams exits with hamstring injury on first play vs. Bears | December 29, 2025