UGA’s Mykel Williams was drafted 11th overall by the 49ers after a dominant 2024 season. Congrats, Mykel—San Francisco just got a beast!

In a move that signals a commitment to defensive dominance, the San Francisco 49ers selected Georgia defensive end Mykel Williams with the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Williams, fresh off a breakout season with the Bulldogs, enters the NFL with the reputation of being one of college football’s most disruptive forces. For a 49ers franchise with championship aspirations and a long-standing defensive tradition, Williams could be the next cornerstone in a front seven already brimming with talent.

A Star in Athens

Williams came to Georgia as a five-star recruit in the class of 2022, hailed as one of the top high school defenders in the nation. The 6-foot-5, 265-pound pass rusher wasted little time making an impression. After showing flashes in his freshman campaign, he took a massive leap in 2023, but it was in 2024 that he cemented himself as an elite prospect.

During the 2024 college football season, Williams compiled 13.5 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, and over 60 total tackles. He added four forced fumbles and a blocked field goal, showcasing not just pass-rush ability, but an all-around disruptive presence. His motor never cooled, and his versatility made him a nightmare for opposing offensive coordinators.

What set Williams apart wasn’t just his stats—it was the way he dominated in big moments. Against top-tier SEC competition, Williams showed up consistently. Whether collapsing the pocket against Alabama, setting the edge against LSU, or batting down key passes against Tennessee, Williams had a knack for delivering when the stakes were highest.

The Complete Package

Williams’ athletic profile is elite. At the NFL Combine, he posted eye-popping numbers: a 4.58-second 40-yard dash, a 36-inch vertical jump, and an impressive 10-foot-5 broad jump. Those numbers would be impressive for a linebacker; for a defensive end of his size, they’re extraordinary.

But beyond the raw athleticism lies a polished football player. Williams boasts a deep repertoire of pass-rush moves, including a vicious swim move, a relentless bull rush, and a quick spin that left offensive tackles guessing. His hands are violent and well-timed, and his bend around the edge rivals that of top-tier NFL veterans. Perhaps most impressively, he has the intelligence and discipline to play within scheme, often sealing the edge or executing stunts with precision.

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart praised Williams throughout the 2024 season, often calling him “a coach’s dream” due to his work ethic and film study habits. “Mykel doesn’t just play fast—he thinks fast,” Smart said. “He understands blocking schemes, reads keys like a linebacker, and he wants to be great. He’s everything you want in a player.”

San Francisco’s Perfect Fit

The 49ers’ decision to draft Williams makes strategic sense on multiple levels. San Francisco has long been known for its fierce defensive lines—from the days of Justin Smith and Aldon Smith, to the current dominance of Nick Bosa. But with the departure of some key rotational pieces and the need to continue refreshing the pass rush, the team was looking for someone who could make an immediate impact and grow into a foundational player.

Defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen (or Steve Wilks, depending on coaching changes) will be thrilled to plug Williams into a scheme that thrives on pressure and physicality. The 49ers deploy a wide-9 alignment often, which favors explosive edge rushers like Williams. With offenses constantly scheming to slow down Bosa, Williams will likely see favorable matchups early in his career.

It’s not hard to envision a terrifying duo of Bosa and Williams collapsing pockets on both sides. Add in the interior pressure from Javon Hargrave and Arik Armstead, and San Francisco could have the most feared front four in the NFL.

Rookie Expectations and Long-Term Potential

Rookie defensive linemen can face a learning curve in the NFL, particularly when it comes to processing the speed of the game and adjusting to complex offensive schemes. But Williams is ahead of the curve. His experience playing against top SEC talent gives him a strong foundation, and his football IQ is often cited as a reason he’ll succeed early.

Still, the 49ers will likely rotate him to keep him fresh and allow him to acclimate to the professional level. He’ll contribute immediately on passing downs and may take on more responsibilities as the season progresses. Expect him to line up primarily as a defensive end in 4-3 sets, with the occasional shift inside on obvious passing downs—an area where his quickness and power can overwhelm slower interior linemen.

Long-term, Williams has All-Pro potential. His physical traits are rare, and his mental approach to the game gives him a chance to be elite. If he continues to develop under the guidance of the 49ers coaching staff and with veterans like Bosa in the locker room, Williams could be the next great San Francisco defensive icon.

The Draft Journey

Leading up to the draft, Williams was considered a near-lock to go in the top 15, and his stock steadily rose after a dominant Senior Bowl performance and strong interviews at the Combine. Scouts raved about his maturity, leadership qualities, and competitive edge.

Several teams reportedly had Williams high on their draft boards, including the Falcons, Colts, and Bears. But when San Francisco traded up to secure the 11th pick, insiders immediately connected the dots. General manager John Lynch, a former All-Pro safety himself, is known for prioritizing smart, tough defenders with high character—and Williams fit that mold perfectly.

On draft night, the selection was met with enthusiasm by 49ers fans and analysts alike. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah called it a “home run pick,” and ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. praised Williams as “one of the most complete defenders in this draft class.” The 49ers War Room was reportedly thrilled when he fell to them, with Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan exchanging fist bumps after submitting the pick.

A Humble Warrior

Despite the accolades, Williams has remained humble and focused. In his post-draft interview, he credited his teammates, coaches, and family for his success. “I’ve had so many people believe in me and push me to be better,” he said. “Georgia gave me the tools, and I’m ready to go to work in San Francisco. I know nothing is given in this league—you have to earn it every day.”

He also expressed admiration for Nick Bosa, saying he’s “excited to learn from one of the best to ever do it.” That mindset—of learning, growing, and contributing to a team-first culture—is exactly what the 49ers covet.

Looking Ahead

The NFC West is a division loaded with offensive firepower, from the Rams’ innovative passing game to the Seahawks’ explosive weapons and the Cardinals’ spread attack. For the 49ers to maintain their dominance, the defense must continue to be the tone-setter. Adding Mykel Williams to the mix ensures they have the firepower to not just hold the line, but to take the fight to opposing quarterbacks.

As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how Williams integrates with a veteran-led locker room and how quickly he can translate his college dominance to the NFL stage. Based on his track record, work ethic, and raw ability, it’s hard to bet against him.

Williams arrives in San Francisco not just as a high draft pick, but as a symbol of the 49ers’ long-standing commitment to defensive excellence. From Georgia’s red and black to the gold and scarlet of San Francisco, Mykel Williams is ready to unleash havoc—and the NFL has been put on notice.