ESPN's Matt Bowen recently released his annual list of NFL Draft picks who landed with the ideal team—15 rookies poised for early success thanks to their fit within their new organizations. For the San Francisco 49ers, that rookie is first-round pick Mykel Williams, the former Georgia defensive end.
Bowen is particularly excited about how Williams might be utilized in a 49ers defense now under the direction of new defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who returned to the team this offseason.
"Under new defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, Williams fits as a three-down defender in San Francisco's 40 front," Bowen wrote. "Saleh can create a launch pad for Williams as a pass rusher from wide-nine alignments, which should put him in a position to win with speed-to-power opposite Nick Bosa. Plus, I can see Saleh scheming up some interior matchups. That would allow Williams to use his 6-foot-5 frame and quickness to attack guards in protection."
Speaking with reporters on Thursday, Saleh noted that his defensive scheme has evolved significantly since his first stint in San Francisco, shaped in part by his experience as the New York Jets' head coach.
"Yeah, for sure it's evolved," Saleh said. "You're always trying to stay two years ahead of the offense. And when we went to the Jets, there were a lot of different things that we started to do.
"And even now, while we have some things from the Jets, there's stuff that has evolved over the course of the last four years here, and obviously with the league, that there's stuff happening."
Williams' college film caught the attention of the 49ers front office and coaching staff during the pre-draft process—before they even realized he had been playing through an ankle injury. Despite the setback, the young defensive end still finished last season with five sacks, bringing his career total to 14.
"Williams is an edge setter who will compete at the point of attack, so he's also built for early-down work as a run defender," Bowen added. "He needs more development, but the physical tools and play style fit with the 49ers' defensive identity under Saleh."
Comments