Redskins' Gruden has 'no expectation' of when Williams will end holdout
Washington Redskins head coach Jay Gruden is preparing for Trent Williams' absence heading into Week 1.
Gruden was less than optimistic when asked if he expected the star left tackle to return to the team before Washington's season opener Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles.
"I have no expectation whatsoever anymore," Gruden said, according to ESPN's John Keim. "I'm kind of numb to the fact, so I'm going to coach the guys we have. That's all we can do right now and ... to your answer, no, I don't have any feeling whatsoever."
Williams has yet to speak publicly about his time away from the team. It's unknown whether his grievance stems from how the Redskins handled a recent medical situation of his, or if it's regarding his desire for a new contract.
Redskins president Bruce Allen denied rumors that the organization was shopping Williams and said he believes the seven-time Pro Bowler will play for the team in 2019.
Washington signed two offensive linemen this offseason in Donald Penn and Ereck Flowers. Penn will start for the team at left tackle during Williams' absence.
HEADLINES
- Sunday Rundown: Instant takeaways from Week 17's early games
- Steelers fall to Browns, setting up winner-take-all finale vs. Ravens
- Bucs, Panthers lose to set up Week 18 showdown for NFC South
- NFL Playoff Picture: Postseason seeds, projected draft order
- SNF bets: 49ers, Bears meet in battle between NFC powerhouses