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Ranking most important 49ers in 2025: No. 9 is star rookie 

A significant role for a potential high-end performer is good enough for number nine on our list.
Parker Hurley|
Jul 23, 2025; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Mykel Williams (98) works on a blocking drill during the first day of training camp at SAP Performance Facility. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images
Jul 23, 2025; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Mykel Williams (98) works on a blocking drill during the first day of training camp at SAP Performance Facility. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images | D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

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San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers drafted Mykel Williams 11th overall in the 2025 NFL draft. So, while he will be just a rookie, it is fair to place the expectations on him to be the ninth most important player on the roster. 

Ranking most important 49ers in 2025: No. 9 Mykel Williams

Williams was drafted because he contains a strong combination of floor and potential. Williams has long arms, a massive body, and, coming from Georgia, he was taught how to maintain gap discipline in the run game. As a rookie, he can make an instant impact as a run defender. 

However, he went so high because that floor also brings the potential of an elite pass rusher. He has the physical tools, and in spurts, you have seen the pass rush plan together. You can envision a 10-sack per year player when it all comes together. 

San Francisco 49ers defensive ends Nick Bosa (97) and Mykel Williams (98) work on their pass rushing skills.
Jul 24, 2025; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive ends Nick Bosa (97) and Mykel Williams (98) work on their pass rushing skills during the second day of training camp. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images | D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

The expectation is not for it to come together this year, but a significant role is expected. Yetur Gross-Matos has not been healthy, and that is his competition to start on the edge. So, a healthy amount of snaps will be on display for Williams, likely starting Week 1. 

What makes Williams so valuable this year is that he will set the edge on run downs, but then slide inside for pass downs. He has already looked solid as an inside pass rusher, and it makes life easier for the athlete. This also allows them to use Bryce Huff, a poor run defender, on situational pass downs, where he thrives. 

A significant role for a potential high-end performer is good enough for number nine on our list.

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Parker Hurley
PARKER HURLEY

Parker Hurley is a Pittsburgh native and IUP alumni with a deep-rooted passion for football and a decade of experience analyzing the game. Since 2016, he had extensively covered the Chicago Bears, serving as the site manager for Bear Goggles On from 2017 to 2023. During that time, Parker published hundreds of articles per month and led content strategy across written, audio, and video formats. Parker has also produced podcasts, blogs, and YouTube content focused on the Pittsburgh Steelers, NFL betting trends, and league-wide analysis. His work blends film breakdowns, statistical insight, and timely news reaction to deliver clear, actionable content for fans and bettors alike. Now, Parker contributes NFL coverage across multiple platforms, expanding his scope to include teams like the San Francisco 49ers and broader NFL narratives. Whether he’s analyzing rookie development or evaluating playoff contenders, Parker’s top priority is helping readers understand the game on a deeper level. He brings passion, clarity, and consistency to everything he writes, always aiming to educate, engage, and elevate the football conversation.

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