‘Full circle’ moment: Trade to 49ers excites DT Collins

Newly acquired Maliek Collins believes his trade to the 49ers is the perfect scenario. While the defensive tackle was enjoying playing for Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans, Collins believes working with defensive line coach Kris Kocurek is meant to be. "I've actually been waiting to be coached by him my whole career," Collins said via video call on Thursday. "I met with him a lot during the combine process back when I came out [of Nebraska], and it's come full circle." Back in 2016 when Collins was coming out of Nebraska and preparing for the NFL Draft, Kocurek was the Detroit Lions' defensive line coach. The young prospect didn't end up in Motor City but instead was drafted in the third round (No. 67) by the Dallas Cowboys, where he spent four seasons. "Same thing from before, when I talked to him on the phone," Collins said. "I remember just his passion that he brings to the game. How he's all about getting a 'dub.' He wants to be the most productive defensive line and he wants to be No. 1 in everything." Through eight NFL seasons Collins has played for the Las Vegas Raiders (2020) as well as the Cowboys and Texans. The 28-year old's career-best five sacks were in both his...