49ers Rookie CJ West Appreciates ‘Fire Hydrant’ Comparison from Robert Saleh
Santa Clara, CA — San Francisco 49ers rookie CJ West might not fit the prototypical mold of an NFL defensive lineman in terms of height, but what he lacks in stature, he makes up for in strength, leverage, and determination. And according to 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, that makes him a serious threat in the trenches — or as Saleh put it, “like a little fire hydrant.”
Robert Saleh Praises West’s Power and Potential
Just a little over a week into training camp, Saleh offered glowing remarks about the fourth-round rookie, telling reporters after last Monday’s practice:
“I mean, he’s like a little fire hydrant, right? But he’s powerful. He’s got heavy hands. He’s going to be fine. There are so many things he’s learning, especially on the interior of the D-line where it’s a game within a game.”
Saleh continued, pointing out that the rookie is picking up on advanced techniques like pocket push and edge capture — foundational skills for defensive tackles in the NFL.
“I heard he did a really nice job over there, but I’m excited to get to the tape to see it.”
CJ West Embraces the Nickname and His Role
When CJ West heard about the “fire hydrant” analogy, he smiled.
“That’s pretty cool,” West said Saturday. “Whatever Coach Saleh says, I’m just going to learn from him and continue to do what he needs me to do. I just want to win. That’s my end goal.”
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch, West is notably shorter than fellow 2025 draftees Mykel Williams and Alfred Collins, both of whom are four inches taller. But West sees his build as an advantage — not a limitation.
“Being shorter than a lot of offensive linemen, I get to use my leverage. I’ve got stockier arms, a stockier build, so I can lock them out easier,” he explained. “I definitely use my frame for leverage. Playing low and getting under people — that’s where I win.”
Continued Growth With Pads On
Once the 49ers transitioned to padded practices this week, Saleh noted even more improvement from West:
“He’s done a really nice job. He’s getting better every day. There are still things he has to clean up — footwork, hand placement — but he’s someone we’re excited about. He’s going to be part of the NFL for a while.”
It’s high praise from one of the league’s most respected defensive minds, and it underscores the potential that West brings to an already-stacked 49ers defensive unit.
Learning From the Best
West isn’t just earning attention from coaches — he’s also soaking up lessons from All-Pro edge rusher Nick Bosa. In a recent interview, West praised Bosa’s “deliberate” approach to technique and preparation, saying it has had a big influence on how he studies the game.
The Road Ahead for CJ West
As the 2025 NFL preseason approaches, CJ West has already established himself as one of the most intriguing rookie storylines in San Francisco. While his nickname might be “fire hydrant,” his impact could prove explosive if he continues his upward trajectory.
