Why Adrian Peterson did not like 49ers' trade for Trent Williams

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Few people are more important in a running back's life than his offensive line. For Washington running back Adrian Peterson, one of those special people had been Trent Williams for the past two seasons Peterson had been in the nation's capital.

Now that the 49ers swooped in and acquired Williams for two draft picks, Peterson isn't thrilled about losing the seven-time Pro Bowl selection.

“I didn’t like the trade,” Peterson said. “Obviously, I feel like Trent is the best offensive lineman in the game.

“I was hoping that there’d be some good ending.”

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With Joe Staley announcing his retirement in late April, it took less than 24 hours for 49ers general manager John Lynch to find a replacement in Williams, who some experts see as an upgrade to Staley.

Peterson seemed to feel Williams' absence in 2019, as nearly all of the former All-Pro running back's numbers declined while Williams was out of the lineup. The left tackle held out for the first half of the season due to past medical issues, before being placed on the non-football injury list after failing a physical upon his return. Williams was given permission to seek a trade in March.

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Washington was able to close the loop on a year-long beef with Williams, but Peterson clearly is concerned about the void at tackle for his offensive line.

Deebo Samuel and the 49ers offense, on the other hand, have to be licking their chops with Williams joining the fold.

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