49ers Coach Shanahan 'Proud' of Mykel Williams' Promising, Injury-Shortened Rookie Year

San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan expressed immense pride in rookie defensive lineman Mykel Williams' 2025 NFL season, despite it being cut short by a torn ACL in Week 9 against the New York Giants. Williams, the No. 11 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, displayed significant grit and battled through multiple injuries, particularly during training camp, impressing Shanahan with his resilience in his nine games played. He recorded one sack, one fumble recovery, 20 combined tackles (four for a loss), and three quarterback hits. Shanahan noted the injury was unfortunate as he was excited for Williams to finish the year strong, but expects him to return healthy next season. Williams, alongside Alfred Collins and C.J. West, stepped up heavily on the defensive line, proving to be a starting-caliber defensive end and inside pass rusher, fulfilling the team's need for high-character talent and a key defensive asset for years to come.