SANTA CLARA, CA — The San Francisco 49ers might have found their next defensive star, and his name is Mykel Williams. During rookie minicamp this week, the former Georgia standout turned heads with a jaw-dropping highlight play that instantly lit up social media — and has 49ers fans buzzing with excitement.

The Play That Went Viral

In a one-on-one drill against a veteran offensive lineman, Williams unleashed a devastating spin move, blowing past his blocker and exploding toward the quarterback dummy with elite burst and power. The clip — shared by several beat reporters and team insiders — racked up thousands of views in minutes.

“You can’t teach that kind of speed off the edge,” one 49ers scout was overheard saying on the sideline. “He’s already looking like he belongs.”

Williams Already Flashing First-Round Talent

Though selected outside the top 20 in the 2025 NFL Draft, Mykel Williams was considered one of the highest-upside edge rushers in the class. His combination of size (6’5”, 265 lbs), athleticism, and SEC-level production at Georgia had draft analysts calling him a “steal” for the 49ers.

This latest minicamp highlight only validates that hype. With Nick Bosa commanding double-teams, a player like Williams could thrive in one-on-one situations — especially on obvious passing downs.

Coaches Taking Notice

49ers defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen didn’t downplay the rookie’s early impact.

“He’s raw, sure, but the effort, the technique, and the hunger — it’s all there,” Sorensen said after practice. “We’re throwing a lot at him, but he’s picking it up fast.”

Fans Already Drawing Comparisons

On social media, fans were quick to draw comparisons between Williams and other dominant rookie pass rushers of the past — some even calling him a potential Aldon Smith 2.0, if he continues to develop at this rate.

What’s Next?

It’s early — very early — but Mykel Williams is giving 49ers fans every reason to believe the team has found yet another defensive weapon. With OTA’s and training camp still ahead, the hype train has officially left the station.

And if this minicamp highlight is any indication of what’s to come, Williams might just become the breakout rookie of 2025.