Which 2025 49ers draft picks showed promise despite limited rookie impact?

Defensive linemen Mykel Williams and Alfred Collins, along with cornerback Upton Stout, were among the 2025 draft picks who showed promising signs in their rookie seasons.

What challenges did key 49ers rookies face in their first year?

Key rookies like Mykel Williams and Alfred Collins were affected by injuries, including a torn ACL and a calf injury respectively, impacting their playing time and production.

What is the outlook for the 49ers' 2025 draft class in their second season?

The 49ers have high expectations for their 2025 draft class in Year 2, hoping that players who showed flashes of potential will now step up to become significant contributors.

Home / Sports / 49ers Rookies: Year 2 Expectations High

49ers Rookies: Year 2 Expectations High

5 Feb

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Summary

Several 2025 draft picks showed flashes despite limited impact in rookie seasons.
Injuries affected key rookies like Mykel Williams and Alfred Collins.
The 49ers hope for significant contributions from their young talent in Year 2.

The San Francisco 49ers' 2025 draft class is poised for a more impactful Year 2, with higher expectations placed on players who showed flashes of potential during their rookie seasons. Despite all 11 draft picks remaining with the team, none achieved All-Rookie status, highlighting a need for greater contribution.

Defensive linemen Mykel Williams and Alfred Collins each recorded one sack but demonstrated impact in other areas, with Williams ranking third in rookie pressures before a season-ending ACL tear. Coach Kyle Shanahan and General Manager John Lynch anticipate significant growth from Williams, who is expected to be ready for training camp after rehabbing alongside veteran Nick Bosa.

Collins, despite a calf injury and needing to lose weight, also made his presence felt, particularly in stopping the run. His presence on the field correlated with a significantly lower explosive rush rate for the 49ers defense. Other rookies, including linebacker Nick Martin and cornerback Upton Stout, also showed promise, with Stout drawing comparisons to elite rookie cornerbacks for his performance.