49ers May Have Already Hit the Mother Lode with New DE

Feb 26, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Georgia defensive lineman Mykel Williams (DL73) during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Feb 26, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Georgia defensive lineman Mykel Williams (DL73) during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The San Francisco 49ers made sure to make a ton of additions to the defensive side of the ball. It started by bringing back Robert Saleh as the defensive coordinator, but they used the NFL draft and the trade market to bolster the defensive side.

In June, San Francisco traded for Bryce Huff, reuniting him with Saleh. That was the final addition to the defensive front, after they drafted three players along the defensive line in April's draft.

Mykel Williams was selected with the 11th overall pick, and he's already looking like an outstanding addition through OTAs and minicamp.

Mykel Williams Looks Like a Great Addition Already

One thing that is consistently popping up is his work ethic and eagerness to get better at the game. According to Grant Cohn of Sports Illustrated, Williams participated in every drill during rookie minicamp and has the drive of an undrafted free agent looking to make the team.

Even through minicamp, Williams has been in Nick Bosa's ear consistently as he looks to learn from one of the game's best pass rushers. Bosa couldn't help but speak highly of the rookie, saying the sky is the limit.

One thing that's already evident for Williams is his size. He's listed at 6-foot-5, 267 pounds, and that pops out when he's out on the field.

During his college career at Georgia, he showed the ability to line up in different spots along the defensive line. His bruising strength and 34-inch arms allow him to push through blockers with ease and set the edge with no problem.

In 40 games as a Bulldog, he had 67 total tackles, 21.5 TFLs, 14 sacks, and three forced fumbles.

The Columbus, GA, native still has room to grow as a pass rusher, but this is the ideal landing spot for him. Saleh has a reputation for developing pass rushers, and being around guys like Bosa and Huff will only make him better. Not being forced to be the immediate starter will allow him to hone in on some skills and become a better player down the line.

He has the size and traits that teams look for, which have already been on full display. As long as he continues to put his head down and work, the talent will shine through and provide San Francisco with another menace upfront.

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