The San Francisco 49ers have plenty of excitement surrounding their rookie class, and it’s headlined by 11th overall pick Mykel Williams. The defensive lineman is expected to make an immediate impact coming off the edge opposite Nick Bosa.
Williams brings size, athleticism, and polish from his college days at Georgia, where he stood out as a dominant force up front. In San Francisco’s aggressive defensive scheme, he’ll be counted on early to create pressure and disrupt the pocket. The 49ers are hoping he forms a dangerous duo with Bosa, giving them bookend pass rushers that can cause havoc on every down.
All eyes will be on how quickly Williams adjusts to the NFL. He’ll need to win one-on-one matchups fast, especially with opposing offenses likely shading protection toward Bosa. But Williams already has his eye on another battle — one against his former college teammate, linebacker Jalon Walker.
Sack Showdown: Mykel Williams vs. Jalon Walker Set for Week 7 Clash
During an appearance on “Up & Adams,” Williams was asked who would finish with more sacks when the 49ers face the Atlanta Falcons in Week 7. Williams laughed as he gave his answer, but he wasn’t short on confidence.
Mykel Williams or Jalon Walker: Who gets more sacks when the 49ers and Falcons square off in Week 7? 👀
“I like my chances.” – Williams@heykayadams | @MykelWilliams_ | @PaniniAmerica pic.twitter.com/OV5Fn7iU1P
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) May 27, 2025
“We gotta wait and see. I like myself though, but we gotta wait and see. I like my chances.”
Williams and Walker played together at Georgia from 2022 to 2024, anchoring one of the best defenses in the country. Williams led their sack battle during that time with 14.0, edging out Walker’s 12.5 despite the linebacker playing in three more games. The position difference matters, but that history fuels a friendly competition heading into their first NFL showdown.
The 49ers lost several key pieces this offseason, including along the defensive line, so they’re counting on Williams to contribute right away as they aim to bounce back from missing the playoffs last year. He’s being thrown into the fire, but San Francisco believes he has the tools to handle the challenge.
On the other side, the Falcons are also in transition. They’ve put together a promising young core, but time is running out to turn that potential into wins. If things don’t start trending upward soon, the team may have to reshuffle its roster or coaching staff. That puts even more pressure on players like Walker to step in and make a difference now.
Williams and Walker both enter 2025 with high expectations — and some of the best odds to win Defensive Rookie of the Year. According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Walker is currently second with +1000 odds, while Williams ranks sixth at +1400 heading into OTAs.
With both teams in need of fresh energy on defense, their Week 7 clash could be a measuring stick for how far these rookies have come. Williams might have the easier matchup in the trenches against a lesser Falcons tackle, but Walker’s athleticism gives him playmaking upside across the field.
No matter who ends up with more sacks in that game, it’s clear both former Bulldogs are ready to make noise in the NFL.