Gracen Halton just made his preseason debut, and the rookie defensive tackle is already making waves. After getting drafted 107th overall in the fourth round this year, Halton’s first game action caught the attention of veteran Trent Williams, who then dropped a comparison that’s going to turn heads across the league.
Halton’s Debut Was Pure Fire
The 22-year-old Halton played four years at Oklahoma, earning All-SEC honors once during his time with the Sooners. He amassed 84 tackles, a solid 8.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and two passes defensed across 47 games. That’s some serious production from an interior lineman. Then came the preseason debut against the Tennessee Titans. Halton came out firing, taking on 2025 No. 1 pick Cam Ward. Even though the play was negated by a penalty, the power was clear. Not satisfied, he then shed a block and stuffed running back Tyjae Spears for a loss on the very next snap. That kind of immediate impact is exactly what you want to see from a rookie.
Trent Williams Just Dropped a Major Name
His performance didn’t just impress fans, it caught the eye of teammate Trent Williams. “Boomer Sooner, Gracen Halton, you know it. G-Baby, man,” Williams said recently. “Obviously, Oklahoma guy, so I’m always gonna be a little biased, but I think the world kinda saw what he has to offer. Very explosive. Short-area quickness. Really powerful.” Then came the big one: “He puts you in the mind of D.J. Jones a little bit, what he had when he was here. He definitely impressed.” That’s high praise, especially when you consider Jones’ career. The 49ers originally drafted Jones in the sixth round of the 2017 NFL draft. He worked his way up, becoming a starter by his third season. His success earned him a three-year, $30 million deal with the Denver Broncos in 2022, and another huge three-year, $39 million extension in 2025. That’s a massive payout for a sixth-round pick.
Can Halton Hit That 15-Sack Ceiling?
If Halton can replicate Jones’ career, the 49ers would be absolutely thrilled. Jones finished with 287 tackles, with 36 of those coming for a loss. He added 26 quarterback hits, an impressive 15 sacks, 13 passes defensed, six forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. Those are Pro Bowl caliber numbers for a defensive tackle. Williams comparing a rookie to that kind of production speaks volumes.
So, can Halton hit that D.J. Jones ceiling? All eyes will be on him in the upcoming preseason games. If he keeps showing that explosive, short-area quickness and power, this fourth-round pick could be a steal. Get ready to watch this kid grow.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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