Georgia native Bryce Clavon values playing for his home state, with the HOPE Scholarship helping him pursue his baseball dreams at the University of Georgia.

In a pivotal moment for the San Francisco 49ers, the team selected Georgia Bulldogs defensive end Mykel Williams with the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This strategic move aims to bolster the 49ers’ defensive line, pairing Williams with All-Pro edge rusher Nick Bosa to create a formidable pass-rushing duo.

A Rising Star from Georgia

Born in Columbus, Georgia, Williams attended Hardaway High School, where he showcased his exceptional talent, earning the Maxwell National High School Player of the Year award. As a five-star recruit, he committed to USC before ultimately choosing to stay in-state and play for the University of Georgia Bulldogs.

During his three years at Georgia, Williams made significant contributions to the team’s defense. In the 2024 season, he played 12 games, recording 21 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. Despite battling a high ankle sprain, Williams’ performance remained impressive, demonstrating resilience and determination.

Strengths That Stand Out

Williams possesses a combination of size, athleticism, and technique that makes him a standout defensive prospect:

• Physical Attributes: Standing 6’5″ and weighing 265 pounds, Williams has the ideal frame for an edge rusher. His long arms and powerful lower body provide a natural leverage advantage against blockers.
• Run Defense: He excels at setting a strong edge, using his violent hand usage and impressive play strength to shed blocks and stop ball carriers effectively.
• Pass Rush Ability: Williams has shown the ability to convert speed to power, particularly on bull rushes, where he drives offensive tackles back into the pocket.
• Versatility: Throughout his college career, he has been deployed across the defensive line, showcasing adaptability that makes him a valuable asset in various defensive schemes.

Challenges to Overcome

While Williams’ potential is evident, there are areas for development:

• Pass Rush Technique: He needs to refine his pass-rushing moves to become more effective in consistently pressuring the quarterback.
• Injury History: Dealing with injuries, particularly the high ankle sprain in 2024, has impacted his performance at times.
• Consistency: At times, Williams has shown flashes of dominance but needs to develop more consistent play to reach his full potential.

Fit with the 49ers

The 49ers’ coaching staff, led by Head Coach Kyle Shanahan and General Manager John Lynch, are excited about the addition of Williams. They believe his skill set complements that of Nick Bosa, creating a dynamic pass-rushing duo that can disrupt opposing offenses.

Williams’ versatility allows him to fit into various defensive schemes, whether as a stand-up edge rusher or a down lineman in a 4-3 or 3-4 defense. His ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line provides the 49ers with flexibility in their defensive strategies.

Looking Ahead

As Williams transitions to the NFL, the 49ers are optimistic about his development. With the guidance of experienced coaches and the opportunity to learn alongside elite players like Nick Bosa, Williams has the potential to become a cornerstone of the 49ers’ defense for years to come.

The 49ers’ selection of Mykel Williams reflects their commitment to strengthening their defensive line and building a team capable of competing at the highest level. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Williams’ career unfolds in the NFL.