2025 NFL Draft speculation intensifies as Details of 49ers' Trade Negotiations Surface
Busting Draft Day Myths: Setting the Record Straight on 49ers and Panthers Trade Rumors
Unravel the yarns surrounding the 2025 NFL Draft, as we separate fact from fiction on the San Francisco 49ers' alleged trade negotiations with the Carolina Panthers.
Contrary to persisting rumors, the 49ers were not on the verge of trading up with the Panthers to nab wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan or tight end Colston Loveland. Instead, their intention was to escalate to the No. 8 pick, primarily to secure their coveted draft target, edge rusher Mykel Williams[1][2][4]. It seems the Panthers declined the offer, preferring to keep their pick for the talented McMillan[2].
The misconception likely arose from the serious trade talks that transpired between the two teams. However, their discussions did not revolve around the acquisition of McMillan or Loveland; rather, they centered on forging a path to secure Williams without having to wait until the 11th pick[4].
With clarity on the matter, it is evident that the 49ers triumphantly selected Williams at the 11th spot in the draft, avoiding the need for a trade with the Panthers[4].
Meanwhile, the 49ers' draft strategy showcased a focus on fortifying their defensive line with youth. In their first five picks, they added three defensive linemen, including Texas defensive tackle Alfred Collins (second-round selection) and Indiana defensive tackle CJ West (fourth-round selection). Look for these rookies to vie for starting roles, as they aim to resurrect the 49ers back to contention.
On the opposite end of the defensive line, Williams will line up across from standout edge rusher Nick Bosa. With the departure of several key players in the offseason, the 49ers sought to replenish their ranks with young talent. If these new additions develop as anticipated, the 49ers could very well return to prominence in the near future.
[1] "NFL Draft: 49ers Trade up rumors persist as they target Georgia Bulldogs defensive star Mykel Williams" - USA Today[2] "Panthers Not Trading Down with 49ers" - Sports Illustrated[4] "Monster Trade for Mykel Williams: 49ers Draft Up, Gain Edge Rusher" - Bleacher Report
The 49ers never came close to trading with the Panthers for wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan or tight end Colston Loveland, contrary to rumors that persist.[2] Instead, they intended to leapfrog to the No. 8 pick to secure edge rusher Mykel Williams, whom the Panthers declined to trade.[1]
The talks between the two teams were serious, but they revolved around securing Williams, not McMillan or Loveland.[4] The 49ers eventually selected Williams with the No. 11 pick, without needing to trade with the Panthers.[4]
During the 2025 NFL Draft, the 49ers focused on strengthening their defensive line with youth, picking three defensive linemen in their first five selections, including Texas defensive tackle Alfred Collins (second-round selection) and Indiana defensive tackle CJ West (fourth-round selection).[1]
Edge rusher Nick Bosa will line up opposite Williams on the defensive line, as the 49ers aim to rebuild their ranks with young talent, hopeful that these rookies will help the team reclaim a place among the league's contenders.
