NFL analyst Brian Baldinger recently revealed his top three candidates for the 2025 Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY) award in a segment on NFL.com, and among them was 49ers' first-round pick Mykel Williams.
While Baldinger also named New York Giants edge rusher Abdul Carter and Denver Broncos cornerback Jahdae Barron, it was Williams who received the most detailed praise for his rare blend of size, skill, and immediate impact potential on one of the league's most formidable defenses.
Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 270 pounds, Williams offers a unique mix of versatility and elite physical traits. Baldinger highlighted how the former Georgia Bulldog can line up across the defensive front, from setting the edge outside to shifting inside as a disruptive 3-technique on passing downs. His nearly 7-foot wingspan, explosive first step, and powerful frame make him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen.
Baldinger even compared Williams' raw power to that of former No. 1 overall pick Travon Walker, reinforcing just how dominant the rookie could become. He also praised Williams' toughness, noting how the defender battled through a high-ankle sprain last season, which showcased the kind of resilience that NFL teams covet.
With Nick Bosa commanding double teams, Baldinger believes Williams is in a prime position to shine early, take advantage of favorable matchups, and potentially become a cornerstone piece in the 49ers' evolving pass rush.
Baldinger's analysis of Williams feels right on target. The 49ers didn't just fill a need — they may have landed their next defensive centerpiece. Williams' ability to flex inside and out, combined with his athletic ceiling, mirrors the blueprint of recent DROY winners like Micah Parsons (2021) and Chase Young (2020).
While Carter and Barron remain strong contenders, Williams benefits from a stacked defensive cast that will free him up to make impact plays — and that's exactly what tends to sway DROY voting.
If he starts fast, Mykel Williams has a very real chance of bringing back Defensive Rookie of the Year honors to the Bay.
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