The San Francisco 49ers could soon receive another boost to their defensive front after opening the practice window for defensive lineman Mykel Williams ahead of their Week 4 matchup against the Denver Broncos.
Williams has been on the Physically Unable to Perform list, but Wednesday's decision represents a significant step toward his return to game action.
ESPN's Adam Schefter shared the update Wednesday on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“49ers have opened the practice window for DL Mykel Williams to return from the Physically Unable to Perform List.”
Opening Williams' practice window does not guarantee he will be activated in time to face Denver, but it allows him to return to practice as San Francisco evaluates his progress. The 49ers can now monitor Williams before determining when he is ready to rejoin the active roster.
Mykel Williams takes significant step toward 49ers return
Williams' potential return would provide another option for a San Francisco defense attempting to help the team continue its undefeated start to the 2026 season.
The 49ers improved to 3-0 with a 36-30 victory over the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3. San Francisco will now attempt to maintain that momentum against a Broncos team that enters the matchup at 2-1.
Williams' participation during the remainder of the practice week could provide additional clarity regarding whether he has a chance to make his season debut Sunday. Even if he is not ready to face Denver, opening his practice window puts him on a path toward returning to San Francisco's defensive rotation in the coming weeks.
The 49ers will host the Broncos on Sunday at 1:25 p.m. PT on CBS.
Following the matchup, San Francisco will travel to Lumen Field for a Week 5 divisional matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, who enter Week 4 with a 2-1 record.