Height is coming off a breakout 2025 campaign at Texas Tech, where he recorded a career-high 10 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss. The season marked his lone year with the Red Raiders after previous stops at Georgia Tech, USC, and Auburn.
On Tuesday, 49ers defensive line coach Kris Kocurek shared his early impressions of Height as the team continues organized team activities (OTAs). When asked what has stood out most about the rookie, Kocurek pointed to the traits that made Height such an intriguing draft prospect.
"Just the speed, athleticism, his explosion on get-off, and then, just natural pass rush ability," Kocurek responded. "It's been really impressive so far. We're not in pads or anything yet, so that'll be the determining factor for the whole thing, but just the way he moves.
"Then, at the end of the day, we drafted him to rush the passer, and he's really excelled at that. His get-off has been really, really good, being able to put tackles behind the eight ball with his get-off and making them set differently and protect differently and getting on them quickly."
The 49ers believe Height's athleticism and pass-rushing ability could allow him to contribute early. He joins a defensive front that includes veteran Nick Bosa and second-year defensive lineman Mykel Williams, both of whom are returning from ACL injuries. The team also traded for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa and drafted Gracen Halton in the fourth round to bolster the unit.
While San Francisco hopes its revamped defensive line will be stronger in 2026, Height could carve out a significant role if he continues to impress throughout the offseason.
For now, the rookie remains focused on learning and developing within San Francisco's system. According to the veteran coach, Height has already proven himself to be a dedicated pupil.
"Just the work ethic that he brings in—he works really, really hard," Kocurek said. "The energy that he plays with. Just the whole package. Excited about him."
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