Washington Redskins offensive tackle Trent Williams spoke Thursday for the first time since ending his holdout that lasted over five months.
The seven-time Pro Bowler discussed how his contract status, and playing with no guarantees, both factored into his decision to stay away from the team.
Williams also said team doctors did not take a growing tumor in his skull seriously enough — the 31-year-old had a tumor removed from his skull during the offseason and now requires biyearly checkups, The Associated Press reported.
“I almost lost my life. Seriously, I almost lost my life,” Williams said. “You’re 30 and coming off seven straight Pro Bowls and a doctor tells you to get your affairs in order. It’s not going to sit well with you. It still doesn’t. It’s a scary thing to go through. Think how you describe to your 9-year-old, your 5-year old that daddy might not be here. It’s tough,” he told reporters.
Williams failed a physical when he returned to the team on Tuesday because he was not able to comfortably put on a helmet. While head coach Bill Callahan is hopeful Williams will return at some point this season, it is still unclear whether he will return to practices or games.
Williams evaded commenting on whether the relationship between him and Redskins team President Bruce Allen could be mended, responding with, “Next question.” He said there was “no trust” with the Redskins, cracking a smile when asked if he wanted to be traded.
In a statement obtained by NBC Sports, the Redskins said they have requested a third party to review Williams’ medical records and the care he received.
The team said it continues to “prioritize the health and well-being of our players and staff.”
Redskins statement after Trent Williams comments this afternoon. Team sources believe the results of the review will look different. This won’t stop for a while. pic.twitter.com/XAJss8cE5R
— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) October 31, 2019
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
