Fans had high expectations for defensive lineman Mykel Williams, whom the San Francisco 49ers selected with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Many hoped the rookie, paired with Nick Bosa and Bryce Huff, could help solidify a pass rush that has struggled.
Since then, the 49ers' defense has been hit hard by injuries, with Bosa lost for the season and Huff sidelined by a hamstring issue. The pass rush has struggled overall, totaling just nine sacks through eight games—only the Jacksonville Jaguars have fewer, with eight.
In Sunday's 26-15 loss to the Houston Texans, San Francisco failed to record a sack for the second time this season. According to Pro Football Reference, the 49ers' defensive line ranks last in the NFL in total pressures (31) and pressure rate (10.5%).
Williams has recorded just one sack, which came in Week 6. His 52.8 pass-rush grade from Pro Football Focus ranks No. 25 among rookie defensive linemen, showing room for growth.
NFL insider Brian Baldinger joined Bay Area radio station 95.7 The Game on Tuesday and shared his evaluation of the rookie defensive lineman.
"He doesn't look like he's got the takeoff you need to win on the edge," Baldinger said. "He almost looks like he would be better inside in a three-technique where he can use his size, and length, and his strength better than he does on the outside right now. That's what it looks like to me."
Baldinger noted that his analysis is based solely on game tape, as he doesn't have the benefit of observing practice, and that Williams may need time to develop before reaching his full potential.
"It's a slow process. He's got a good coach," Baldinger continued. "But I don't see the first-step quickness that you need in order to be a feared pass rusher at this point. Now, it's early. The big thing is, honestly, for any of these pass rushers, especially if Mykel is on the outside, is two things. One, takeoff. Work on it every day. Takeoff.
"And then, two, get your hands on these guys, and then from there, figure out—because the ball can be gone in two seconds, and he could also be holding the ball. So, if they're holding it because it's play-action or because it's third-and-13, have a plan to get to the edge and start collapsing the pocket. And I don't really see a plan from these guys yet."
While Williams has yet to make a significant impact in his rookie season, there remains hope that he can still become a key contributor in San Francisco's pass rush for years to come.