49ers’ rookie CJ West is different. Just ask his high school theater teacher (paywall) ““There were a lot of theater kids that weren’t football players,” White said. “And they weren’t kids that were popular. And CJ treated everyone in the program like they belonged and were so cool. Here’s this big football player and he’s hugging you, saying ‘break a leg,’ giving someone a pep talk or holding a hand and saying a prayer backstage. I mean, he’s just the greatest kid in the world.”

The 49ers didn’t select West in the fourth round in April for his ability to belt out “Reindeer(s) Are Better Than People.” But his on-stage success is reflective of an insatiable drive that’s inspired by his mother’s sacrifice. West remains determined to ensure her hard work is rewarded. And his desire has manif

See Full Page