San Francisco revamped its defensive front this offseason. One of the newcomers is first-round draft pick Mykel Williams, a versatile defensive lineman capable of playing inside or outside. San Francisco saw significant untapped potential in him as a pass rusher. With Bosa sidelined for the rest of the season, Williams is expected to see more opportunities to pressure opposing quarterbacks and make impactful plays.
Some wondered whether the pressure to replace Bosa's production might be too much for a rookie. Fred Warner was asked ahead of Wednesday's practice if he had any advice for Williams about handling the increased responsibility.
"I honestly don't think much needs to be said," Warner said. "I think Mykel's made of the exact right stuff. I don't feel that he's even thinking in that way. I think he's just so excited that he's having the opportunity to have as big a role as he's had with us so far. And I think, obviously, that role is only gonna increase.
"He just loves playing the game and already wants to be the best version of himself, and so, if he just continues to keep going, then I know that he'll go where he wants to."
Williams has appeared in all three games this season, playing 130 defensive snaps—69% of the team's total. While he has yet to record his first NFL sack, he has tallied nine pressures, ranking third on the team behind veterans Bryce Huff (11) and Nick Bosa (10).
Notably, six of Williams' nine pressures came during Sunday's win over the Arizona Cardinals. His Pro Football Focus pass-rush grade has steadily climbed from 49.2 in Week 1 to 59.3 in Week 2 and 68.4 in Week 3.
Huff, acquired via trade this offseason, expects San Francisco's younger linemen to step up in Bosa's absence and make key plays down the stretch. That includes Williams. Huff was asked about the rookie on Wednesday.
"Mykel's on point," Huff said. "When he came in, first-rounder, he's playing like a first-rounder. He's been making great plays, had a lot of consistent pressure last week, so I'm looking forward to seeing how he continues to develop."
With his talent and work ethic, Williams has the potential to become a cornerstone of the 49ers' defensive front for years to come.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers confident in Brock Purdy's health following return to action
Against the Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy looked his most mobile since returning from his lengthy turf toe injury. His performance signaled that he has put the setback behind him and is no longer thinking about it when he's on the field. It also... -
49ers great Roger Craig named 2026 Hall of Fame finalist
San Francisco 49ers legend Roger Craig took a significant step toward football immortality on Wednesday. The former NFL running back was named one of five finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, joining senior finalists Ken Anderson and L.C. Greenwood, coach... -
The Stat No One's Talking About That Could Define the 49ers' 2025 Season
A lot has been written about the outstanding performance of San Francisco's coaching staff this year. Head coach Kyle Shanahan deserves all the praise for the work he's done with the offense and the overall team chemistry. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, of course, is... -
49ers overlook size concerns, add skilled receiver in The Athletic's 2026 NFL mock draft
The San Francisco 49ers could be in the market for a first-round wide receiver when the 2026 NFL Draft arrives. Brandon Aiyuk's future remains uncertain, and many around the league believe the veteran wideout has likely played his final snap for the 49ers—even after signing a...