49ers' Mykel Williams expected back for training camp

Rookie defensive end recovering from torn ACL and meniscus

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:19pm by Ben Kaplan

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San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch said that 2025 first-round draft pick Mykel Williams is expected to be back for the team's training camp this year. Williams suffered a torn ACL and lateral meniscus in his right knee during the 49ers' Week 9 win over the New York Giants last season.

Why it matters

Williams was a key part of the 49ers' defensive line rotation as a rookie, and his return to full health will be crucial for the team's pass rush and run defense in the upcoming season. The 49ers are hoping Williams can make a full recovery and contribute alongside star defensive end Nick Bosa.

The details

According to Lynch, Williams' recovery timeline may take a bit longer than Bosa's, who tore his ACL about 1.5 months earlier in late September 2025. As a rookie, Williams recorded 20 tackles and 1 sack over 9 games played.

  • Williams suffered the knee injury in Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season.
  • Bosa tore his ACL in late September 2025, about 1.5 months earlier than Williams.

The players

Mykel Williams

A 2025 first-round draft pick by the San Francisco 49ers who suffered a torn ACL and lateral meniscus in his right knee during the 2025 season.

John Lynch

The general manager of the San Francisco 49ers.

Nick Bosa

A star defensive end for the San Francisco 49ers who also suffered an ACL tear earlier in the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“Williams tore the ACL and lateral meniscus in his right knee during the 49ers' Week 9 win over the Giants. Lynch acknowledged that the 2025 first-round pick might take longer than fellow defensive end Nick Bosa, who tore his ACL about 1.5 months earlier in late September.”

— John Lynch, 49ers General Manager

What’s next

The 49ers will monitor Williams' recovery progress throughout the offseason and hope to have him fully healthy and ready to contribute when training camp begins.

The takeaway

The return of Mykel Williams to the 49ers' defensive line will be a key factor in the team's success next season, as they look to bounce back from injuries and compete for a playoff spot in the NFC.