The San Francisco 49ers' recent draft picks reveal a strategic focus on fortifying their defense, particularly against the run. Mykel Williams, selected in the first round, is heralded as a high-floor edge defender, showcasing impressive traits that make him a safe bet for a successful NFL transition. His run defense grade ranks in the 97th percentile among college edge defenders, making him a standout choice for the 49ers.

In the subsequent rounds, the team added defensive tackles Alfred Collins and CJ West, both known for their strength and versatility. Collins, with an 85.0 PFF run-defense grade, is expected to make an immediate impact, while West offers promising potential as a rotational player. Meanwhile, the backfield faces competition for the secondary running back role following Christian McCaffrey's absence, with Jordan James emerging as a strong candidate due to his impressive PFF rushing grade over the last two seasons.