Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, “here’s what helped set into motion the Trent Williams’ trade: six-time Pro Bowl and All-Decade OT Joe Staley is expected to retire due to health concerns, per league sources. The 35-year-old Staley wanted to inform the 49ers in a timely way to help find a replacement. They have.” Ian Rapoport reported that “with Joe Staley expected to retire, San Francisco has a little extra money to play with and will help with Williams’ deal.”
Earlier in the month, NBC Sports’ Matt Maiocco said on his podcast that Staley had been going to the 49ers’ facilities every day to rehab and try to get back to 100%.