The San Francisco 49ers made waves in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Mykel Williams, an edge rusher from the University of Georgia, with the 11th overall pick. This decision not only reflects the team’s roster-building strategy but also highlights the high regard the coaching staff and personnel department have for this young talent. Below are the key reasons why the 49ers are so enamored with Mykel Williams, based on insights from the team’s directors of player personnel.
1. Exceptional Run Defense Ability
One of Mykel Williams’ standout strengths is his prowess in run defense. Over the past two seasons, the 49ers’ defense has struggled to stop the run, particularly late in the season. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 267 pounds, Williams brings the strength and versatility needed to address this weakness. General Manager John Lynch emphasized, “Mykel is one of the top run defenders at the college level, both in terms of stats and our eye-test evaluations.”
Williams excels not only at holding his ground but also at creating opportunities for his teammates by sealing gaps. This skill makes him a perfect fit for the 49ers’ defensive line, which needs stability to reclaim its dominance.
2. Grit and Resilience Through Injury
Williams demonstrated remarkable resilience by continuing to play through a serious ankle injury sustained in the 2024 season opener. Despite the injury limiting his mobility, he still took the field and practiced with unwavering determination. Director of Player Personnel Tariq Ahmad shared, “I was really impressed with how he pushed through the injury. Every time our scouts were there, he was practicing despite the pain.”
This tenacity aligns perfectly with the 49ers’ culture, which values discipline and dedication. Lynch even highlighted his admiration for Williams playing through the injury, missing only two games, showcasing his toughness and strong will.
3. Immense Developmental Potential at Age 20
At just 20 years old, Williams possesses the physique and demeanor of a seasoned veteran, which Head Coach Kyle Shanahan described as “looking like a grown man on the field when going up against 25-year-olds.” His ideal frame and youth make him a long-term investment for the 49ers. Shanahan believes Williams has significant room to grow over the next five years, when he’ll still be just 25.
His ability to play multiple positions on the defensive line, from edge rusher to defensive tackle in certain situations, further enhances his value. He is expected to learn from Nick Bosa, one of the NFL’s premier edge rushers, to refine his skills and become a future cornerstone.
4. Outstanding Leadership and Character
Beyond his on-field talent, Williams is highly regarded for his character and team-first mentality. John Lynch emphasized that the 49ers prioritize players with “leadership qualities” and a “love for football.” Williams checks all these boxes with his serious approach to practice and dedication to his teammates. His stated career goal—prioritizing winning a Super Bowl and leaving a legacy over chasing big contracts—has endeared him to 49ers fans.
Lynch revealed that he didn’t need much discussion with Georgia coach Kirby Smart to confirm Williams’ character, as he was already viewed as a “49ers guy” early in the scouting process.
5. Perfect Fit for the 49ers’ Scheme
The 49ers’ personnel department, including Tariq Ahmad, RJ Gillen, and Josh Williams, had been tracking Mykel Williams since the summer before his final season at Georgia. They were particularly impressed by his ability to dominate blockers and his “edge-setting” skills in run defense. Josh Williams recalled, “I saw him at practice and in the Georgia-Ole Miss game. He has an NFL-ready frame and the demeanor of a player who represents the 49ers.”
Williams’ versatility to play both outside and inside positions on the defensive line makes him an ideal fit for the 49ers’ Wide 9 scheme. He’s not just a specialized edge rusher but can generate pressure from multiple spots, a trait highly valued by defensive coaches Robert Saleh and Kris Kocurek.
6. Unwavering Belief from the Front Office and Efforts to Secure Him
The 49ers’ affection for Williams was evident in their attempts to trade up into the top 10 to ensure they could draft him. Though the trade didn’t materialize, having Williams available at the 11th pick was a stroke of luck for the team. Lynch shared, “We thought he’d be gone before then, so when he was still there, we were thrilled.”
The consensus within the 49ers’ organization about Williams’ value was a key factor. From the coaching staff to the scouting department and front office, everyone saw him as the ideal piece to rebuild the defensive line, especially after losing key players like Leonard Floyd in the previous season.
Conclusion
Mykel Williams is not just a safe pick but a “diamond in the rough” that the San Francisco 49ers believe can shine brightly in the future. With his exceptional run defense, resilient mindset, immense developmental potential, leadership qualities, and perfect fit for the team’s scheme, Williams represents a new hope for the 49ers in their quest for a Super Bowl. Fans have every reason to be excited, as under the guidance of Nick Bosa and the coaching staff, Williams is poised to become a rising star in the NFL.