With the 11th pick, the San Francisco 49ers drafted Mykel Williams, making him the highest Georgia Bulldog selected in the 2025 NFL draft. Georgia head coach Kirby Smart was among those to react after the 49ers selected Williams.

There weren’t many people predicting him going to the 49ers. Many more believed he could be going to the NFC West rival Arizona Cardinals at No. 16. Others thought the Bengals (No. 17) or Eagles (No. 32) could draft him with their respective picks. Both the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers also showed interest in him.

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Williams has the measurable and athleticism to be an elite edge rusher in the NFL, and he will get to develop in the 49ers’ elite system. Williams, who had an emotional draft call with the 49ers, will be learning under returning defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who was rehired after he was fired as a head coach of the New York Jets.

Saleh has led his teams to a top five defense in yards allowed five of the last six years. He has developed edge rushing talents such as Nick Bosa, Jermaine Johnson and Will McDonald.

Williams earned just 14.0 sacks through his three seasons with Georgia, but he made big developments in year 3, with five sacks in 12 games. It’s arguable that Williams’ ankle injury prevented him from playing at the best of his abilities last year. It also prevented him from testing at the combine.

Despite that, Willliams is in a great ecosystem to grow and develop as an edge rusher alongside Nick Bosa. Williams represents the first time the 49ers have selected a Georgia Bulldog in the first round in over 60 years.

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How did Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart, the fans, media and more react after Williams’ selection?

Georgia Bulldogs are dependable to rebuild a defensive line

Williams in his new digs

Kirby Smart gives a salute

“The time has finally come Mykel Williams!!” Georgia head coach Kirby Smart said. “You’re going to play for a long time, and we’re wishing you the best on this next great step in your journey. Can’t wait to see what you do with the 49ers and can’t wait to see you at the next level. GO DAWGS !!”

A good golf analogy for you

Bold predictions incoming

This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Kirby Smart, more react after 49ers draft Georgia DL Mykel Williams