49ers’ First-Round Pick Mykel Williams Sidelined for Season with Torn ACL
The San Francisco 49ers have suffered a significant setback with the news that rookie defensive end Mykel Williams will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a torn ACL in his right knee. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed this news on Monday, amid a series of injuries impacting key players on the team.
Details of Mykel Williams’ Injury
Williams, the 49ers’ first-round draft pick in April, sustained the injury during the fourth quarter of a game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. At the time, the 49ers were leading by 17 points. Initial concerns about the injury were confirmed through testing, which also revealed lateral meniscus damage. While Shanahan noted that the injury seemed clean overall, he did not provide a specific timeline for rehabilitation.
Season Performance
- Mykel Williams, aged 21, started all nine games this season.
- Williams recorded 20 tackles, including four for loss, one sack, and three quarterback hits.
Impact on 49ers’ Defense
The loss of Williams is particularly critical, as he becomes the second starting defensive end to suffer a torn ACL this season. Nick Bosa was also injured in Week 3, marking the second time Bosa has experienced such an injury at MetLife Stadium. He previously tore his ACL against the New York Jets in 2020.
The 49ers recently acquired defensive linemen Keion White and Clelin Ferrell to bolster their roster, particularly with Bosa out for the season and Bryce Huff dealing with a hamstring strain. Ferrell contributed to the team’s defense by recording one of the two sacks against the Giants.
Future Additions and Trade Deadline
As the 49ers continue to manage their injuries, they remain active in the trade market, even after trading for White. They have shown interest in Miami Dolphins pass rushers such as Bradley Chubb and Matthew Judon. Additional options include Atlanta’s Arnold Ebiketie and the Jets’ Jermaine Johnson as the trade deadline approaches at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
Further Injury Updates
In addition to Williams’ injury, the 49ers have several players recovering. Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk remains on the physically unable to perform list due to a torn ACL. Meanwhile, both Ricky Pearsall (knee) and center Jake Brendel (hamstring) could potentially return to play this week, according to Shanahan.
The situation continues to evolve as the 49ers balance recovery efforts, trades, and their current roster to maintain competitive performance through the rest of the season.
