The most fascinating battle for the San Francisco 49ers to watch as they move through training camp is their rookie defensive linemen. Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins and C.J. West have become major players in the race to start on the defensive line. From each player’s individual attributes to their on and off field challenges, demonstrating their potential to make an impact come the NFL season.
Since the start of camp, rookie Mykel Williams has solidified himself as a starter right off the bat. His ability to rush the quarterback from the inside has proven advantageous, although he is expected to line up outside during run plays. Williams’ versatility would become valuable in multiple game situations, especially as he slides to inside positions in sub packages on passing downs.
Still, the soon-to-be-rookie-of-the-year’s path hasn’t been without its bumps. Williams faced an uphill climb in the spring due to a lingering ankle injury. So, it was no surprise when he had to miss a practice during camp. What he has shown this season, and what he could keep showing going forward, is his resilience and adaptability as he develops his craft.
“My pops told me a while ago, man, closed mouths don’t get fed,” Williams remarked, emphasizing his proactive approach in seeking opportunities. In one entertaining camp interlude, he jokingly inquired of veteran offensive tackle Trent Williams whether he could borrow his private jet. This playful plea underscored Tua’s colorful character away from the field and infused some humor into an otherwise tense team.
Alfred Collins, who the 49ers drafted with pick No. 113 overall, is competing for a starting job as well. Throughout the process, he’s offered encouraging signs including an impressive knack for disengaging from blockers. Collins admits that he still has plenty of work to do on his tackling game pass-rush toolbox. He’s doggedly determined not to raise his pad level. This focus is particularly important for the NFL success of a defensive lineman.
Collins spent much of the offseason getting back to his peak health. He remained determined as he fought back from a significant calf injury that had sidelined him during spring play. This time away has given him the time he needs to recover and prepare himself for the grueling competition that’s sure to take place come camp.
C.J. West has possibly been the most impressive player since joining the squad. New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh notably gave West a high compliment. He praised West’s ability thus far to adjust to the speed of the NFL game and carve out a niche for himself in the team’s heavily-utilized defensive formation. West did not take long to start turning heads in training camp, repeatedly making plays during one-on-one drills that sent a ripple through the wide receiver room.
In one particularly impressive example, West sent fellow line Dominick Puni flying backward with an impressive rush, showcasing his quickness, balance and power. From the sixties on, he took a variety of approaches toward navigating this brave new NFL world.
“You don’t get a redshirt year when you come in. You need to be ready to play,” West stated, reflecting on the urgency of being prepared as a rookie in such a demanding league.
Robert Saleh expressed confidence in West’s future, stating, “I think of all the major sports, the NFL relies on rookies more than any of them.” He is convinced, more than anything, that the experience these rookies are gaining now will play a huge hand in their development as their performance grows throughout the season. In Saleh’s view, this type of early exposure helps them “swim freely” as they develop into their roles.
Saleh noted the versatility all players of Collins’ ilk possess. “He’s a big body with really, really quick feet,” he said, emphasizing Collins’ potential to be a valuable asset in multiple roles. Continuing to praise Collins’ skills, Saleh said, “He’s a three-way player. He can run outside you, he can run inside you, he can run at you, he can run behind you in the counter—he’s flaunting all of it.
As training camp goes on, everyone’s attention will be focused on these young players and how they handle their first taste of professional football. The battle for starting jobs on the d-line will be fierce. Every player wants to prove their abilities and lead the 49ers to success this year.
Leave a Reply