New San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Alfred Collins, a standout from Texas, spoke with reporters virtually on Friday after being selected in the second round (No. 43 overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft. Grateful for the opportunity, he expressed appreciation to the organization for "taking a chance" on him, and delivered a confident message to fans.
"Not gonna be a mistake," Collins declared.
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When asked what he brings to the 49ers locker room, Collins was direct.
"A competitive mindset," he replied. "I'm ready to learn from those that have done it before me. I'm ready to come in and do whatever I can to win games. And I'm gonna be a good teammate to my teammates."
The 49ers struggled to stop the run last season, and Collins believes he can help turn that around. He earned a career-high 85.0 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus in 2024.
Explaining what sets him apart as a run defender, Collins said, "Just great pad level, elite hands, great feet, play recognition to know what block is coming to you. And then, just getting off of blocks, doing your job at a high level."
Speaking to team reporter Lindsey Pallares, he added: "The run will be stopped."
Collins also looks forward to learning from the team's established veterans, guys like linebacker Fred Warner and the other players who have enjoyed successful careers.
"I'm trying to be in this league for a long time and they've done it before me," Collins said. "They've been in my shoes, so I'm picking their brains, for sure."