The San Francisco 49ers' 2025 draft class is going to be defined by how pass rusher Mykel Williams develops.
The former Georgia product was one of the most exciting additions of the offseason and isn't wasting any time impressing his new fan base. With the leadership of new defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and the defensive talent, there isn't any reason to believe that Williams can have a year-one impact.
The former Bulldog is by far the most pro-ready of the remaining pass rushers and fits perfectly within the team's scheme, and, after the first three picks of the draft, there is an argument to be made that Williams was the next best choice.
49ers Made the Perfect Choice Drafting Mykel Williams
Watching the Williams against NFL-level bodies against the Texas Longhorns served as a reminder of just how quick and dominating he can be. This is the same level of skill the 49ers have seen from the rookie in the first weeks of the offseason.
Not only do the 49ers have further reason to believe the team made the right choice, but it is also time to wonder what exactly the rookie's ceiling might be in year one.
Historically, it is important to give pass rushers a year to adjust to the next level. While there are outliers, it typically takes a bit of time to adjust to the position. There is a level of patience with pass rushers that seems to no longer be prevalent with any other position. While this doesn't mean Williams can go out and struggle, there won't be an expectation of elite production right away.
However, it is fair to wonder if this is misplaced based on the elite ability of the pass rusher.
From everything we've seen in the rookie minicamp and the offseason, it is fair to wonder if Williams is going to need this patience at all. The balance of speed and power with secondary moves is all present for the exciting prospect. All of this adds up to a player who continues to impress and leave questions about exactly where his ceiling might be.
No question, the 49ers made the perfect decision on draft night.