The San Francisco 49ers are banking on their 2025 NFL Draft class to reshape their defense, with first-round pick Mykel Williams and second-round pick Alfred Collins at the forefront. After losing several key veterans this offseason, general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan have turned to these two defensive standouts to fill critical gaps. In a recent interview with NBC Sports Bay Area, Lynch unveiled the compelling reasons behind the 49ers’ relentless pursuit of Williams and Collins, revealing insights that underscore why these rookies are poised to transform the team.
The Mykel Williams Obsession: A Trade-Up Gambit That Nearly Happened
The 49ers’ pursuit of Mykel Williams, the former Georgia defensive lineman, was nothing short of a high-stakes mission. Lynch admitted that the team was so enamored with Williams that they attempted to trade up with the Carolina Panthers for the No. 8 overall pick to secure him. While the deal ultimately fell apart, fortune smiled on San Francisco as Williams was still available when they picked at No. 11.
“Mykel was that guy for us,” Lynch said, his enthusiasm palpable. “What do we like? I think we love the fact he’s played in the best conference, in Georgia, a program that really develops tough, really skilled football players. If you’ve been to one of their practices, it’s extremely physical, and so he’s been through that. He’s battle-tested in that way.”
Williams’ versatility is a cornerstone of his appeal. At Georgia, he showcased his ability to dominate across multiple positions along the defensive line, a trait that aligns perfectly with the 49ers’ defensive scheme. At just 20 years old when drafted, Williams combines youthful potential with a maturity that impressed the 49ers’ brass. “There’s a wisdom, there’s a comfort in his own skin that just made it feel like he’s one of us,” Lynch noted. “We were thrilled to have him, and I think it’s only going to get better with Mykel, and it’s already pretty darn good.”
The 49ers see Williams as a foundational piece whose best years are ahead, making their aggressive pursuit a strategic move to lock in a player with superstar potential.
Alfred Collins: The Sleeping Giant Ready to Awaken
While Williams was the headliner, second-round pick Alfred Collins is no less critical to the 49ers’ defensive rebuild. The Texas defensive tackle brings a rare combination of size and agility that Lynch believes will make him a disruptive force in the NFL. However, Collins’ journey to this point was one of patience and perseverance.
“It came later for Alfred,” Lynch explained. “He had really good players in front of him, so it wasn’t until that senior year he made a really, really nice push, and played some huge big-time football for Texas. They obviously had a tremendous year.”
Collins’ breakout senior season showcased his ability to dominate, leveraging his massive frame and surprising range to wreak havoc in the trenches. The 49ers view him as a perfect fit for their defensive front, where his playmaking ability can complement the existing talent. “A really big man who can move, and gives us some range inside that we feel is going to be a real good fit for our scheme,” Lynch said.
The Stunning Secret: A Defense Built for the Future
What makes the 49ers’ pursuit of Williams and Collins so intriguing is the underlying strategy: building a defense that can dominate for years to come. The departure of veteran players left significant voids, but Lynch and Shanahan see these rookies as more than just replacements—they’re the cornerstones of a new era. The 49ers’ willingness to trade up for Williams and their high investment in Collins reveal a calculated gamble on youth, versatility, and untapped potential.
The secret that leaves fans stunned? It’s not just about immediate impact. The 49ers are crafting a defensive identity around players like Williams and Collins, whose unique skill sets and maturity signal long-term dominance. With Williams’ proven versatility and Collins’ emerging stardom, San Francisco is betting that these rookies can anchor their defense as they aim to rebound in 2025 and beyond.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Williams and Collins to see if they can live up to the hype. If Lynch’s glowing praise is any indication, the 49ers have found two gems who could redefine their defense—and stun the NFL in the process.