Ian Williams was supposed to be an integral part of the San Francisco 49ers defense this season. As a member of the interior defensive line rotation, Williams brought sorely needed experience and talent to the table. The 49ers recognized this with a five-year contract extension during the offseason.
This deal was switched to a one-year contract, however, after the 49ers realized Williams underwent an offseason leg surgery. Now, the 49ers have released him.
Williams has been with the 49ers since he signed as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He has been a starter for the past three seasons, though to of them were cut short due to lower leg fractures.