San Francisco 49ers Select Former Georgia Bulldog Mykel Williams in First Round of 2025 NFL Draft

In a strategic move to bolster their defensive line, the San Francisco 49ers selected former Georgia Bulldogs edge rusher Mykel Williams with the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This decision underscores the team’s commitment to enhancing their pass rush and run defense, addressing key areas of need following a challenging 2024 season.

Mykel Williams: A Rising Star from Georgia

Hailing from Columbus, Georgia, Mykel Williams emerged as a standout defensive talent during his tenure at the University of Georgia. Standing 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 265 pounds, Williams possesses a formidable physical presence that has drawn comparisons to some of the NFL’s elite edge rushers. Throughout his three-year collegiate career, he accumulated 65 tackles, 14 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles, earning Second-Team All-SEC honors in both 2023 and 2024 .

Williams’ versatility was a significant asset to Georgia’s defense. He demonstrated the ability to line up in various positions along the defensive front, from traditional 4-3 defensive end to stand-up edge rusher in 3-4 schemes. This adaptability is expected to serve him well in the 49ers’ multiple defensive front system .

The 49ers’ Defensive Overhaul

The 49ers entered the 2025 NFL Draft with several defensive vacancies following the departures of key players such as Leonard Floyd, Maliek Collins, and Javon Hargrave. Recognizing the need to strengthen their defensive line, the team targeted Williams, who was regarded as one of the top edge rusher prospects available. His selection at No. 11 overall reflects the 49ers’ strategy to rebuild their defense through the draft, aiming to complement the existing talent on the roster .

Teaming up with 2022 AP Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa, Williams is expected to form a formidable pass-rushing duo. His ability to set a strong edge against the run and his potential to develop into a more consistent pass rusher make him a valuable addition to the 49ers’ defensive front.

Strengths and Areas for Development

Strengths:

• Physical Attributes: Williams’ combination of size, length, and athleticism is rare, even by NFL standards. His exceptional power allows him to control blocks and create separation at the point of attack.
• Run Defense: He excels at setting a strong edge, using his length and heavy hands to stack and shed blocks with authority. His advanced recognition skills enable him to stay disciplined against misdirection plays and zone reads.
• Motor: Williams consistently demonstrates an elite motor, maintaining intensity late in games when others are fatigued .

Areas for Improvement:

• Pass Rush Technique: While Williams shows flashes of brilliance, his pass rush repertoire lacks a consistent go-to move. Developing a more diverse array of pass rush techniques will be crucial for his success in the NFL.
• Snap Timing: His get-off at the snap can sometimes be slow, which may negate his athletic advantages against quicker offensive linemen.
• Gap Discipline: Occasionally, Williams struggles with gap discipline and can be late to recognize pulling linemen in run defense. These issues, while concerning, are generally considered coachable at the next level .

Impact on the 49ers’ Defense

The addition of Mykel Williams provides the 49ers with a young, dynamic edge rusher who has the potential to develop into a cornerstone of their defense. His versatility allows defensive coordinator Robert Saleh to employ various schemes, maximizing Williams’ strengths and mitigating his areas for improvement. With proper development, Williams could become a key contributor alongside Nick Bosa, forming one of the most formidable pass-rushing duos in the NFL.

As the 49ers continue to rebuild their defense, the selection of Williams represents a calculated investment in potential. While he may not be an immediate game-changer, his development under the guidance of the 49ers’ coaching staff could yield significant dividends in the coming seasons.

Looking Ahead

As Mykel Williams transitions to the NFL, all eyes will be on his development during training camp and the preseason. The 49ers’ coaching staff will focus on refining his pass rush techniques and ensuring he adapts to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. With the right guidance and continued hard work, Williams has the potential to become a key player in the 49ers’ defensive lineup, contributing to the team’s aspirations of returning to championship contention.

The selection of Mykel Williams marks a significant step in the 49ers’ defensive overhaul. By investing in a young, talented edge rusher with high upside, the team is positioning itself for sustained success in the competitive NFC landscape.