The San Francisco 49ers used the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday night to select Georgia edge rusher Mykel Williams. After an offseason with few high-profile signings, Williams represents the team’s most notable addition since the season ended. Judging by the buzz on social media, 49ers fans quickly embraced the pick.
O Liner
April 25, 2025, 1:28 AM
“One of the youngest players in the draft. An absolute menace on the edge. His stats dipped last year due to injury, but his pass-rushing potential is massive. Pairing him with Bosa should be lethal. Saleh and Coach K finally getting that D-line back.”
FrankTheTank49247
April 25, 2025, 1:37 AM
“This kid’s length is insane! His arms are like snowboards—he made Kelvin Banks look average in both games against Texas. Just tossed him aside like it was nothing. Still raw, but super young, reportedly a natural leader and a versatile talent. I’m all in!”
https://x.com/The_Earl_Taylor/status/1915577875933151620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1915577875933151620%7Ctwgr%5Ef90f482f4d4837611554f11fc2c023e122761542%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ninersnation.com%2F2025%2F4%2F25%2F24416347%2Fnfl-draft-recapping-49ers-fan-reactions-georgia-mykel-williams
While most 49ers fans were excited about the selection of Mykel Williams, not everyone was fully sold on his long-term upside. Even among skeptics, there was a general agreement that he’d make an immediate impact in run defense—a trait San Francisco has often prioritized over pure pass-rush potential in past drafts.
GhostOfWalsh
April 25, 2025, 1:32 AM
“Bit of a reach at No. 11 based on what he’s shown so far. Feels more like a late-first-round guy to me. That said, if he can consistently notch 10 sacks a year, it’ll end up being a solid pick.
Next up: Defensive tackle.”
NinerGang365
April 25, 2025, 2:04 AM
“Williams checks every physical box—size, speed, arm length, athleticism—you name it. He’s a very solid edge setter and run defender. What worries me is his limited pass rush repertoire. For someone drafted this high, you’d hope he had more ways to win as a rusher. If the coaches can develop a pass rush plan for him, he’s got the tools to dominate. But if he keeps relying on one move, NFL tackles are going to shut him down.”
My take? It’s a high-upside swing that comes with risk. Williams brings elite traits and physical tools, and pairing him with Nick Bosa could unlock his potential fast. But if he doesn’t evolve as a pass rusher, the pick could feel like a missed opportunity. Definitely a “bet on traits” kind of move.
