Robert Saleh is set to return to the San Francisco 49ers as defensive coordinator after a challenging stint as head coach of the New York Jets. With a record of 20-36 over three seasons, Saleh reflects on the experience as educational, eager to refocus on defense. His arrival signifies a potential revival of the 49ers' defensive prowess, particularly with first-round pick Mykel Williams pairing with All-Pro Nick Bosa. However, the defense faces challenges with key losses such as Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga, suggesting a transitional phase ahead.

The San Francisco 49ers kicked off the 2025 NFL Draft with a defensive focus, selecting Mykel Williams at No. 11 overall as part of a strategy led by general manager John Lynch and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. The aim is to enhance their defense featuring stalwarts like Fred Warner and Nick Bosa, but the new influx of young talent raises concerns about inexperience. A potential trade for veteran linebacker Jadeveon Clowney from the Carolina Panthers is on the table to bolster their pass rush, particularly after the departure of Dre Greenlaw.

This move could provide immediate experience alongside Warner, as the team prepares for another competitive season. The 49ers must balance developing their rookies while incorporating veterans like Clowney to realize their Super Bowl aspirations. If the opportunity arises, acquiring Clowney could greatly benefit a young defense facing learning curves.

The Arizona Cardinals made a strategic move in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting defensive lineman Walter Nolen III with the 16th pick. However, it has been revealed that their initial target was pass rusher Mykel Williams, who was taken 11th overall by the San Francisco 49ers. The Cardinals' focus on strengthening their defensive line was evident, as they were poised to go for either player. Williams, now with the 49ers, is seen as a strong addition opposite elite pass rusher Nick Bosa, raising questions about which team made the better choice. This turn of events sets the stage for an intriguing rivalry between the two teams in the coming seasons, as both will aim to prove the efficacy of their selections.

The San Francisco 49ers are looking to make a significant impact this season with their first round draft pick, Mykel Williams, emerging as a leading contender for Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY). ESPN analyst Ben Solak ranks Williams as the top choice for this honor, outpacing fellow rookie Jalon Walker from the Atlanta Falcons. Both players, while not standout performers in college, find themselves in systems that maximize their potential. Williams will benefit from the mentorship of renowned defensive line coach Kris Kocurek, allowing him to utilize his speed and pass-rush abilities effectively. His production, especially in pass-rushing, will be crucial for the 49ers as they aim to improve their defensive output after struggles the previous season.

Williams, projected to start opposite Nick Bosa, is essential to the 49ers' plans for a dominant defense. His ability to thrive in the run game will likely not garner accolades; instead, a successful DROY campaign would signal a return to form for a defense that struggled to pressure quarterbacks last season. The 49ers are counting on their rookies to deliver, and a standout performance from Williams could be the catalyst for their defensive resurgence.

The San Francisco 49ers have completed the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting a total of 11 players, including their top pick, Mykel Williams, an edge rusher from Georgia. Analysts have expressed mixed opinions on the draft, with NFL.com's Gennaro Filice ranking the 49ers' rookie class 17th overall. The team focused primarily on improving its defense, particularly against the run, after struggling last season. The 49ers allowed an alarming average of 145.3 rushing yards per game during a seven-game losing streak.

Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, back for a second stint with the 49ers, emphasized the importance of stopping the run as a top priority. The 49ers used three of their first five picks to bolster their defensive front, indicating a strategic shift towards a sturdier defensive line. Mykel Williams and third-round pick Nick Martin are both projected to compete for starting positions in the upcoming season, suggesting that fans can expect to see a more resilient defense on the field come Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season.