49ers Reinforce Defense with Return of Former Top Pick Mykel Williams

The San Francisco 49ers are poised to receive a significant boost to their defensive line with the anticipated return of Mykel Williams, their 2025 first-round draft pick. Williams has been sidelined since tearing his ACL last season and has been on the Physically Unable to Perform list. His practice window was opened last week, making him eligible to be activated for the upcoming game.

Williams expressed his eagerness to return after a year away from the game. "I'm going crazy. I'm losing my mind," Williams said. "I'm ready to go. I miss playing ball. It's been like damn near a year. … Knowing how banged-up we are, it's just been killing me watching it transpire how it has been. I'm ready to get back on the field."

While there is no official confirmation of his status for Sunday's game, Williams hinted at his availability, stating, "We'll see Sunday." His potential return comes as the 49ers continue to navigate the absence of star defensive end Nick Bosa, who is expected to miss at least another week.

During his rookie season, Williams played in only nine games before his injury. In those appearances, the 49ers' run defense saw improvement, allowing only 3.5 yards per carry. Williams, the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, recorded one sack and four pressures in his limited time on the field. He acknowledged that his rookie performance did not reflect his full capabilities, stating, "I know the type of player I am, and I don't think I represented myself well on tape last year."

Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, who scouted Williams when Morris was the head coach of the Falcons, recognized his versatility. "He can play anywhere," Morris said. "He's kind of that spinner in a different way. He can go inside, outside, do different things like that."

Williams underwent surgery on November 25 and has been rehabbing with guidance from Nick Bosa, who had a similar procedure. Williams adopted a stricter diet and training regimen, inspired by Bosa's discipline.

General manager John Lynch indicated that the team made the decision to place Williams on PUP to ensure his full recovery. "We did what we thought was in his best interest and our team's best interest to give him some extra time," Lynch said. "I think he was just scratching the surface last year of what he can be."

Williams' return, alongside the eventual comeback of Bosa, is expected to significantly bolster the 49ers' defensive front as they approach the November 11 trade deadline. Lynch stated that the team is open to further improvements if opportunities arise.