After completing the NFL Draft and wrapping up free agency, the San Francisco 49ers are focusing on a defensive overhaul for the upcoming season. Under the leadership of John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan, the team selected five defensive players back-to-back, including first-round pick Mykel Williams, an edge rusher from Georgia. This strategic move aims to shore up a previously disappointing defense, particularly the defensive line, with star players like Nick Bosa leading the charge.

Despite these significant upgrades, the 49ers did not break into the top 10 of the USA TODAY post-draft power rankings, landing at 14th overall, just ahead of divisional rivals, the Seattle Seahawks. While the Niners have had inconsistent playoff success during Lynch and Shanahan's tenure, they remain optimistic about a rebound, provided they can manage injuries better than in past seasons.

San Francisco 49ers made a strategic move by hiring Robert Saleh as their defensive coordinator again, after losing several key defensive players in free agency. Despite these losses, the team retained stars like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, and began addressing their defensive needs by selecting Mykel Williams and Alfred Collins in the draft. This focused approach allowed the 49ers to replenish their defense effectively, spending their first five picks to target defensive talent. General Manager John Lynch's vision became evident as the team climbed in power rankings post-draft, showing promise for a stronger defense. With health and young talent, the 49ers aim to revitalize their defense and support the offense under head coach Kyle Shanahan, who is looking to regain the team's offensive edge lost in the previous season.

The San Francisco 49ers faced a tumultuous 2024 season, drastically underperforming from their previous 12-5 record to a disappointing 6-11. Injuries plagued key offensive players such as Christian McCaffrey, who only played four games, and Brandon Aiyuk, who suffered an ACL tear in his seventh game. Other stars like Deebo Samuel and George Kittle also dealt with injuries, while the defense saw significant losses with players like Nick Bosa and Talanoa Hufanga sidelined at various points. Offseason changes include trading Samuel to Washington and signing quarterback Mac Jones, along with new defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft is critical for the franchise to rebuild and refocus.

The San Francisco 49ers made a significant move in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Georgia edge rusher Mykel Williams as the 11th overall pick. At 6-foot-5, Williams showcased his skills at Georgia with impressive stats, including 67 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, and 14 sacks over three seasons. A two-time All-SEC second team selection, he now joins forces with Nick Bosa, creating a formidable pass-rushing duo for the 49ers defense.

Experts and fans alike have reacted on social media, expressing varied opinions on the 49ers' decision. With his pedigree as a former five-star recruit, expectations are high for Williams to make an immediate impact opposite Bosa, further solidifying the 49ers' defensive line. This selection marks a crucial step in the 49ers' strategy to enhance their defensive capabilities heading into the new season.

The San Francisco 49ers made a significant move in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Mykel Williams from the Georgia Bulldogs to bolster their defensive line alongside superstar Nick Bosa. Williams, a two-time All-SEC performer, was a dominant force in college, accumulating 14 sacks and 23 tackles for loss over three seasons. This physical pass rusher, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 265 pounds, is expected to make an instant impact against the run while developing his pass-rushing skills.

Having struggled to find a consistent partner for Bosa, the 49ers believe Williams will fill that void effectively. Historically, the team has rotated players like Leonard Floyd and Clelin Ferrell on the opposite end, but Williams offers a new dynamic to the edge rushing game. With the addition of this promising talent, the 49ers aim to transform their pass-rush and improve their defense, which allowed an average of 124.5 rushing yards per game last season.