49ers Rookie Mykel Williams Thanks Teammate for Heartfelt Gesture After Injury
Santa Clara, CA – San Francisco 49ers rookie defensive end Mykel Williams has publicly expressed his gratitude to a teammate who showed an extraordinary act of compassion following the team’s recent victory over the New York Giants.
Williams, who suffered a season-ending ACL and meniscus tear in his knee during the Week 9 matchup, remained hospitalized for observation on Sunday night. Despite the team’s emotional overtime win, one 49ers leader quietly skipped postgame celebrations to visit the rookie —
Mykel Williams injured on this play but walks off under his own power 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Sv7hXEOY1P
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) November 2, 2025
According to team officials, Purdy arrived at the hospital still in his postgame attire, spending more than an hour talking with Williams and his family. Witnesses described the moment as “quiet, emotional, and genuine.”
“My family told me everyone else was celebrating, but he showed up just to make sure I was okay,” Williams said. “That meant the world to me. He didn’t have to do that, he’d just led us to a huge win, but that’s who he is. I’ll never forget that.”
Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the visit during his Monday presser, saying it reflected the unity that defines the 49ers locker room.
“We talk a lot about brotherhood around here,” Shanahan said. “Moments like that show you it’s not just talk. Brock’s one of the most genuine leaders I’ve ever been around.”
The 21-year-old Williams, selected 11th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, had started all nine games this season before the devastating injury. Despite modest stats — one sack and three quarterback hits — his relentless energy and maturity quickly made him a favorite among teammates.
Doctors expect Williams to make a full recovery following surgery later this month. Until then, the rookie says he’s channeling his energy into rehab and drawing inspiration from the support he’s received from the team.
“When you’ve got people like that in your corner,” Williams said, “you realize football’s more than just a game. It’s family.”
The 49ers dedicated their next practice to Williams, with several defensive linemen wearing his number 90 on their practice jerseys — a quiet reminder of the bond that continues to define San Francisco’s locker room.
49ers Veteran Offensive Tackle Arrested Hours After Team Release
San Francisco, CA — The San Francisco 49ers confirmed early Tuesday morning that a recently released veteran offensive lineman was arrested in downtown San Jose late Monday night, just hours after being informed of his release from the team.
According to police reports, the player was taken into custody on multiple charges, including driving under the influence, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. The incident reportedly occurred near a bar shortly after midnight, where witnesses say the man had been drinking heavily before getting behind the wheel.
Authorities stated that when approached by officers, he became verbally aggressive and refused to comply with commands, prompting his arrest. The incident came only hours after the player had received notice of his termination from the team — a decision that, according to sources, had deeply affected him.
The lineman, later identified as Brandon Parker, had signed with San Francisco earlier this season to provide veteran depth and leadership on the offensive line. A former starter with the Raiders, Parker had spent much of the past two seasons battling injuries and was part of the 49ers’ practice squad rotation before his release on October 28.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the situation during Tuesday’s media availability, saying:
“It’s a tough situation. He’s always been a respected guy here — hardworking, dependable, and well-liked by everyone in this building. When we heard the news, our first step was to make sure he’s safe and getting the help he needs. We’re not here to judge him — we’re here to help him find his way back. Once a Niner, always part of our family.”
The 49ers organization later issued a statement through Shanahan, reaffirming their support for the veteran:
“The organization has reached out privately to provide both legal and emotional assistance, ensuring he receives the proper guidance moving forward.”
Sources within the team said the incident is being handled internally with empathy and discretion. Team leaders emphasized that while accountability is important, the focus remains on helping a longtime professional through one of the most difficult moments of his career.
