Rookie Debut Raises Concerns for Alfred Collins with San Francisco 49ers
Alfred Collins faced a rocky start in his NFL career during his debut for the San Francisco 49ers. For any rookie stepping onto the field for the first time, the experience can be overwhelming. Although preseason games provide a taste of the professional level, they seldom match the intensity and speed of regular-season play. Unfortunately for Collins, even the most forgiving expectations for a rookie debut were not met.
Limited Opportunities on the Field
In his first outing, Collins was on the field for just nine snaps, a number that raises eyebrows given the significant expectations placed on him. Out of those nine plays, seven were focused on run defense, with only two opportunities to showcase his pass-rushing abilities. While it’s not uncommon for teams to gradually integrate their rookies, the 49ers appeared to place considerable trust in Jordan Elliott and Kalia Davis, leading to limited chances for Collins.
Davis, in particular, made a mark during the game, possibly emerging as a breakout player. However, this reliance on Elliott and Davis was not part of the original game plan, especially considering both players are better suited as pass-rushing three-techniques. In contrast, Collins is intended to fill the role of a run-stopping nose tackle, a position that requires a different set of skills.
Struggles in Performance
Collins’ performance raised immediate concerns. Despite the small sample size, it seemed as if he struggled with his footing throughout the game, often finding himself on the ground. His tendency to play too high became apparent, leading to penalties and missed opportunities that he did not face as frequently in college. Moreover, the complexity of the NFL schemes seemed to overwhelm him, indicating that he may not be ready to fulfill his role as a situational run defender. This is troubling, as the 49ers had hoped Collins would develop his pass-rushing skills over the course of the season.
With the 49ers utilizing players like Mykel Williams and Yetur Gross-Matos as interior rushers when possible, it became clear that the team was not counting on Collins for pass-rushing duties this year. Instead, they needed him to solidify his position against the run, a bar he may struggle to clear this season.
Future Outlook for Collins
While it is premature to panic over a rookie’s debut, the early signs for Collins are concerning. The 49ers’ plans to integrate him and fellow rookie CJ West into the lineup as they adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL may need reevaluation. With West also receiving limited snaps—just seven, primarily in a pass-rushing role—Collins might find himself competing for playing time moving forward.
As the team prepares for their next matchup, the question looms large: how much optimism can fans hold regarding Collins’ development and future impact? The initial signs suggest that he has a long way to go before he can meet the expectations set for him as a member of the 49ers.
