The San Francisco 49ers have completed the first two weeks of their 2026 training camp at their SAP Performance Facility, and they’ve seen some players have strong performances, while others have been quiet or sidelined due to injury.
One player that the 49ers would love to show out in camp is rookie defensive end Romello Height, who the team selected in the third round (No. 70 overall) of this year’s draft following a collegiate career split between Auburn, USC, Georgia Tech and Texas Tech.
While Height had an injury scare early in camp that turned out to be a cramp, he’s been on the field working to be in the mix for the 49ers on the edge during his rookie season. However, he still has plenty of work to do.
In fact, Height spoke to the media and revealed the one area that his coaches want him to improve the most.
“Honestly, just gaining ground on that first step,” Height said. “That’s been the big key, honestly. Getting off the ball and just gaining more ground on that first step because I can close space quick, so, honestly, just gaining ground and closing in on the tackle quick.”
At the NFL level, Height will benefit from that coaching point. If he can get in quicker, he’ll have an advantage early in a rushing snap, which could lead to sacks, a collapsed pocket or a rushed throw.
Luckily, he has a guy like Nick Bosa, who has been one of the pass rushers in the league when he’s healthy, to learn from in practice, and that’s something Height is doing after every rep that Bosa participates in.
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This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers rookie explains where coaches want him to improve most
Reporting by Mike Masala, Niners Wire / Niners Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Mike Masala, Niners Wire | USA TODAY Network
