Raymond Berry, a Hall of Fame wide receiver and one of the most successful head coaches in New England Patriots franchise history, has passed away at the age of 93. The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced his death on its website, marking the end of a storied career that spanned decades in both playing and coaching. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on February 27, 1933, Berry’s football journey began in high school under his father’s guidance. However, he did not start playing until his senior season. After attending Schreiner University, he completed his college career at Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he caught just 33 passes over three seasons. His lack of production led to a late draft selection, as he was chosen 232nd overall in the 1954 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts in the 20th round. Despite his unremarkable college stats, Berry quickly proved his worth in the NFL. Berry’s professional career was defined by his exceptional receiving skills. After retiring following an injury-shortened 1967 season, he had been voted All-Pro three times and earned six Pro Bowl appearances. Over his career, he appeared in 154 regular season games, catching 631 passes for 9,275 yards—then the highest total in league history—and 68 touchdowns. His postseason performance was equally impressive, as a two-time Colts champion, he recorded 20 receptions for 284 yards and a touchdown in four playoff games. Following his playing days, Berry transitioned to coaching, initially working with the Dallas Cowboys, Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns, and Arkansas. In 1978, he joined the Patriots, where he began as a wide receivers coach under Chuck Fairbanks, Ron Erhardt, and Ron Meyer. When Meyer was dismissed in 1984, Berry took over as interim head coach.#new_england_patriots #san_francisco_49ers #baltimore_colts #pro_football_hall_of_fame #raymond_berry
Bengals' 2026 Schedule: Low Travel Miles Signal Competitive Advantage The Cincinnati Bengals are set to face one of the most favorable schedules in the NFL for the 2026 season, according to recent analysis of travel distances for all teams. With the league’s 2026 schedule release approaching, the Bengals’ reduced travel demands have emerged as a significant advantage, particularly given their placement in the league’s travel mileage rankings. Bill Speros, a sports analyst known for his detailed breakdowns of NFL logistics, has compiled data showing that the Bengals will travel just 15,177 miles during the 2026 season. This figure places the team at 24th in the league, far outside the top 20 teams in terms of travel distance. The San Francisco 49ers lead the league with an astonishing 38,105 miles traveled, highlighting the stark contrast in travel demands between teams. The Bengals’ low travel mileage is particularly notable given their inclusion in the league’s international game schedule. Despite being selected for an overseas matchup, the team’s overall travel distance remains significantly lower than most competitors. This achievement underscores the strategic benefits of their schedule, which minimizes the physical and logistical strain on players and staff. The Bengals’ schedule is considered one of the easier ones in the NFL, a factor that has drawn attention from analysts and fans alike. The team’s ability to avoid long-haul trips while still competing in high-profile games, including the international fixture, positions them favorably for maintaining player health and consistency throughout the season. Travel distance has long been a critical factor in NFL scheduling, as it impacts player performance, team preparation, and overall competitiveness.#san_francisco_49ers #2026_season #cincinnati_bengals #bill_speros #international_game
49ers Waiting Game with Brandon Aiyuk Leaves NFL Teams on Hold The San Francisco 49ers’ reluctance to trade disgruntled wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has created a stalemate in the NFL, with multiple teams opting to wait for his potential release before pursuing a deal. ESPN’s Dan Graziano highlighted the situation, noting that while Aiyuk’s availability is confirmed, the financial complexities of his contract and the strained relationship between the player and the team have stalled any immediate trade activity. General Manager John Lynch recently reiterated Aiyuk’s availability during a press conference following the 2026 NFL Draft, stating, “We’re available. Give us a call.” However, the 49ers’ hesitance to move forward has left other franchises in a holding pattern. Aiyuk’s contract, which includes significant guaranteed money, remains a major obstacle. Although the 49ers voided the remaining guarantees in his deal last year, the receiver is still owed $27 million if he remains on the roster in 2026. Any team acquiring Aiyuk before his release would inherit that salary obligation, making it financially advantageous to wait until he is cut. Graziano explained that interested teams are content to let the 49ers handle the release, as it would allow them to sign Aiyuk at a lower cost. “Knowing the relationship is broken and that the Niners will almost certainly cut Aiyuk before having to pay his Week 1 salary, teams have decided they can afford to wait,” he wrote. The situation stems from a deteriorating relationship between Aiyuk and the 49ers, which began after the receiver signed a four-year, $120 million extension in 2024. The deal reportedly led to buyer’s remorse within the organization, and Aiyuk’s on-field struggles further exacerbated tensions.#san_francisco_49ers #2026_nfl_draft #brandon_aiyuk #john_lynch #niners
49ers and Brandon Aiyuk in Trade Stalemate as NFL Draft 2026 Looms The San Francisco 49ers and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk remain locked in a trade stalemate as the 2026 NFL season approaches, with both sides delaying decisions amid financial and contractual considerations. ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported that the 49ers have not moved Aiyuk, who last played in 2024, due to the team’s plan to release him before he earns his full salary for the 2026 season. Graziano noted that teams are hesitant to act because they anticipate the 49ers will eventually cut Aiyuk, making it advantageous to wait for a potential trade or free-agent opportunity. The 49ers’ decision to void Aiyuk’s 2026 guaranteed salary of $24.94 million last summer, following his absence from team-mandated rehab for a knee injury that ended his 2024 season, has created flexibility. This move, made before Aiyuk spent the entire 2025 season on the sidelines, means the team could either trade him before June 1 or cut him, incurring about $2 million in dead cap penalties. However, if the 49ers keep Aiyuk past September 1 without exercising his 2026 option bonus, his salary would rise to approximately $26 million in 2027, according to ESPN’s Nick Wagoner. Wagoner highlighted that the 49ers are unlikely to retain Aiyuk beyond September, and any trade would require him to agree to a restructured contract with the acquiring team. This complicates negotiations, as teams interested in acquiring Aiyuk may prefer to wait until he is released by the 49ers. At that point, they could offer him a new contract without sacrificing draft picks. Aiyuk’s last fully healthy NFL season was in 2023, during which he recorded 1,342 receiving yards in 16 games.#san_francisco_49ers #washington_commanders #adam_peters #brandon_aiyuk #nfl_draft_2026
Indiana Football's 2026 NFL Draft Success: Record-Breaking Selections BLOOMINGTON — The Indiana football program continued its momentum following a perfect national championship season by securing a historic performance in the 2026 NFL Draft. For the first time in program history, Indiana had two players selected in the first round, marking a significant milestone after a 22-year gap since the last first-round pick. The draft, held in Pittsburgh, saw multiple Hoosiers drafted across multiple rounds, reflecting the team’s growing national reputation and the impact of its championship-winning season. The Las Vegas Raiders made a statement by selecting Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. Mendoza, a standout performer during Indiana’s undefeated campaign, became the first Hoosier to be drafted first overall in program history. His selection was widely anticipated, given his elite arm strength, leadership on the field, and consistent production throughout the season. The New York Jets followed up with a blockbuster move by drafting Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr. with the No. 30th pick in the first round. The Jets traded back into the bottom of the first round to secure Cooper, a former standout receiver known for his route-running precision and ability to make plays in critical moments. His selection was a testament to his development during the 2025 season, where he emerged as one of the nation’s top wideouts. The Jets’ draft night continued with the selection of Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds at the 50th pick in the second round. Ponds, a former teammate of Cooper, will reunite with his IU teammate in New York. Ponds’ selection highlighted his versatility as a coverage specialist and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.#las_vegas_raiders #baltimore_ravens #san_francisco_49ers #new_york_jets #indiana_football
Darius Slay Fiercely Defends 2024 Eagles Super Bowl Team Amid Criticism The 2024 Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl championship team faced unexpected backlash after former Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu publicly questioned its dominance, claiming the 2023 San Francisco 49ers squad they defeated was superior. Omenihu’s remarks, made during an interview on the "Speakeasy" podcast, sparked a strong response from Eagles cornerback Darius Slay Jr., who defended the team’s legacy and performance. The debate centered on the Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Chiefs in the Super Bowl, a game that highlighted the team’s defensive prowess and strategic decisions by head coach Nick Sirianni. Omenihu’s comments were part of a broader discussion about the 2024 Eagles’ dominance, which included a 40-22 blowout of the Chiefs. During the game, the Eagles’ defense recorded six sacks, three interceptions, and a fumble, while limiting Kansas City to just 49 rushing yards. However, the final score was influenced by a controversial decision by Sirianni, who benched the starting defensive players midway through the fourth quarter. This move allowed the Chiefs to mount a late rally, scoring two touchdowns before the final whistle. Omenihu, who was part of the Chiefs’ roster during the 2024 season, mocked the Eagles’ approach, suggesting the Chiefs could have dominated the game if the starters had stayed on the field. Omenihu’s assertion that the 2023 49ers were a better team than the 2024 Eagles drew sharp criticism from fans and analysts. The 49ers, who won their Super Bowl in 2023, had a playoff record marked by three close victories, each decided by three points. In contrast, the 2024 Eagles outscored their opponents 145-77 across four playoff games, showcasing their offensive and defensive efficiency.#philadelphia_eagles #san_francisco_49ers #darius_slay #nick_sirianni #charles_omenihu
Seahawks to kick off 2026 NFL regular season on Wednesday, Sept. 9 in Seattle The National Football League has officially announced the schedule for the 2026 NFL regular season, with the Seahawks set to open the campaign on Wednesday, September 9. The first game will take place at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock in Seattle, featuring the Super Bowl LX champion Seahawks. The exact opponent for the Seahawks’ Week 1 matchup will be revealed when the full 2026 regular season schedule is released later this spring. In addition to the Seahawks’ home opener, the NFL will host its first-ever regular season game in Melbourne, Australia. The San Francisco 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday, September 10 at approximately 8:35 p.m. ET at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Ticket sales for the Melbourne game will begin with hospitality packages available on Ticketmaster starting April 6 and general admission tickets going on sale to the public on April 7. All ticket and hospitality options will be accessible through Ticketmaster’s website, with further details available at ticketmaster.com.au/nfl. The 2026 NFL season will feature a record nine international games across four continents, seven countries, and eight stadiums. These games will be held in London, Madrid, Melbourne, Mexico City, Munich, Paris, and Rio de Janeiro. The London games will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley Stadium, while Madrid’s match will be at Bernabéu Stadium. The Melbourne game will be at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Mexico City’s game at Estadio Banorte, Munich’s at FC Bayern Munich Stadium, Paris’s at Stade de France Stadium, and Rio’s at Maracanã Stadium. Fans interested in tracking the NFL’s international schedule can visit dedicated pages for each location, including NFL.com/London, NFL.#nfl #los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #seahawks #melbourne_crickey_ground
San Francisco 49ers to Open 2026 Season Against Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne The San Francisco 49ers will kick off the 2026 NFL season with a historic matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday, September 10. The game, scheduled for 5:35 p.m. Pacific Time at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, will mark the league’s first-ever regular-season game in the city. Due to the 17-hour time difference, the 49ers will take the field in Melbourne on Friday at 10:35 a.m. Australian Eastern Standard Time. The contest will be broadcast live on Thursday evening for audiences on the West Coast. This international game is part of the NFL’s 2026 season-opening schedule, which begins the night before with the Seattle Seahawks hosting the season’s first game on Wednesday, September 9 at 5:20 p.m. Pacific Time. The 49ers’ trip to Melbourne represents a significant milestone for the franchise and underscores the NFL’s ongoing efforts to expand its global footprint. Tickets for the Melbourne game will be available to the public starting Tuesday, April 7, through Ticketmaster. Fans interested in exclusive hospitality packages can begin securing their options on Monday, April 6. Additionally, travel and ticket packages are being offered through On Location. Those who submitted a Priority Access deposit via On Location will receive instructions for selecting their packages, while others can join the second round of selections by placing an Access Guaranteed deposit at the provided link. The game’s timing and location highlight the NFL’s growing presence in international markets, blending sports with cultural exchange. The 49ers’ decision to host the game in Australia aligns with the league’s strategy to attract global fans and create memorable experiences beyond traditional U.S. markets.#nfl #melbourne #los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #melbourne_cricket_ground
Seahawks to Open Week 1 on Wednesday Amid International Schedule Shift The NFL has confirmed that the Seattle Seahawks will kick off the 2026 season on a Wednesday night, deviating from the traditional Thursday night opener. This adjustment is necessary to accommodate the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers, who will play their Week 1 game in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday night in the United States. The Seahawks’ matchup, scheduled for NBC at 8:20 p.m. ET, will mark their first Wednesday night start since 2012. The Rams and 49ers’ game in Australia will take place on Friday morning at 10:35 a.m. local time, which translates to 8:35 p.m. ET. However, the league has not yet announced the broadcast partner for this international contest. The decision to shift the Seahawks’ opener stems from the need to align with the Rams and 49ers’ game, which will be televised in the U.S. on Thursday night. This marks the first time the NFL will host a regular-season game in Australia. The Rams were announced as the host team in February 2024, with the 49ers confirmed as their opponent last month. The match will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a venue that has previously hosted major sporting events. The NFL’s decision to move the Seahawks’ opener also reflects broader scheduling adjustments. The league has historically played international games on Fridays following the season opener, such as the 2024 matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers in São Paulo, Brazil, and the 2025 game between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs in São Paulo. However, this year’s international game in Australia cannot follow the same pattern due to a provision in the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961.#los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #seattle_seahawks #melbourne_cricket_ground #sports_broadcasting_act
Detroit Lions Sign Unrestricted Free Agent OL Ben Bartch Allen Park, Mich. – The Detroit Lions have signed unrestricted free agent offensive lineman Ben Bartch to their roster. Details regarding the contract terms were not disclosed. Bartch, entering his seventh season in the NFL, joins the Lions after spending the past three years with the San Francisco 49ers (2023-25) and previously playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2020 to 2023. He was originally selected by the Jaguars in the 2020 NFL Draft as a fourth-round pick (116th overall) from St. John’s (Minn.). Over his career, Bartch has appeared in 55 games, with 24 of those starting. The move marks Bartch’s return to the NFL after a stint with the 49ers, where he contributed as a reserve offensive lineman. His experience includes playing in various roles along the offensive line, providing versatility and depth to the team’s front. The Lions’ decision to sign Bartch reflects their ongoing efforts to bolster their offensive line depth ahead of the 2026 season. Bartch’s signing adds to a wave of free agent additions for the Lions, who have been active in the offseason. The team has also secured several other players, including quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, edge rushers Payton Turner and D.J. Wonnum, and wide receiver Greg Dortch, among others. These signings indicate a strategic approach to address key areas of need and enhance the roster for the upcoming season. The Lions’ focus on free agency underscores their commitment to building a competitive team. With Bartch’s arrival, the organization aims to strengthen its offensive line, a critical component for success in the NFL. His ability to adapt to different schemes and his track record of contributing in key moments make him a valuable addition to the roster.#san_francisco_49ers #detroit_lions #jacksonville_jaguars #ben_bartch #st_john_s_minn
49ers' Offensive Lineman Signs with NFC North Team The San Francisco 49ers began the offseason with their top two left guards, Spencer Burford and Ben Bartch, entering free agency. After Burford signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, Bartch remained on the market until Wednesday, when he finalized a deal with the Detroit Lions for the 2026 season. The move was reported by the San Francisco Chronicle’s Eric Branch, who noted Bartch’s new affiliation with the NFC North team. The 49ers had previously relied on Bartch as a key component of their offensive line, particularly in protecting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. With Burford’s departure to the Raiders, the team faced the challenge of replacing their second-ranked left guard. Bartch’s decision to join the Lions marks a significant shift for both players, as the Lions aim to bolster their offensive line depth ahead of the 2026 NFL draft. This development comes as the 49ers prepare for the 2026 NFL draft, with reports indicating they are actively pursuing top-tier wide receiver prospects. The team’s focus on strengthening its offensive line aligns with broader efforts to address weaknesses in their roster. Bartch’s signing with the Lions underscores the competitive nature of free agency, where players often seek opportunities to contribute in new environments. The Lions’ acquisition of Bartch also highlights the strategic moves teams make to secure talent ahead of the draft. With the 2026 draft class expected to feature high-profile prospects, both the 49ers and Lions are positioning themselves to make impactful selections. Bartch’s transition to the Lions represents a pivotal moment in his career, as he aims to establish himself in a new league context.#san_francisco_49ers #detroit_lions #ben_bartch #spencer_burford #san_francisco_chronicle
Detroit Lions Add Ben Bartch to Boost Offensive Line Competition The Detroit Lions have signed veteran guard Ben Bartch to increase competition for starting offensive line positions this spring. The move comes as part of the team’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen its offensive line following a playoff-less season for the first time since 2022. Bartch, a 27-year-old guard, joins the team after a free-agent visit last week and is expected to challenge for a starting role this fall. Bartch, a fourth-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020, started two games at left guard for the San Francisco 49ers last season before missing time with a high ankle sprain. He has been a part-time starter throughout his six NFL seasons, with 11 starts at right guard for the Jaguars in 2021. His college career was spent at Saint John’s University in Minnesota, where he played Division III football. Bartch also spent parts of the past two seasons on injured reserve, which has limited his playing time. The Lions have made several moves to reshape their offensive line this offseason. They released veteran players Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow, both of whom were key contributors in previous seasons. In free agency, the team signed Cade Mays and Larry Borom, while acquiring Juice Scruggs through a trade. Additionally, they have retained Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, and Penei Sewell as starters. Sewell, a three-time All-Pro, could transition from right to left tackle to replace Decker, while Ratledge is likely to remain at right guard. Coach Dan Campbell emphasized the importance of adding competition to the roster during the offseason. After the 2025 season, he stated his intent to bring in players who would push existing talent to perform at a higher level.#san_francisco_49ers #detroit_lions #jacksonville_jaguars #ben_bartch #christian_mahogany
49ers Agree to Contract with Robert Jones for Offensive Line Depth The San Francisco 49ers have reached an agreement with veteran offensive lineman Robert Jones, adding depth to their offensive line ahead of the 2026 season. The deal was first reported by NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, who noted the 49ers and Jones had come to terms on a contract. The move was confirmed by NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco, who highlighted Jones as a “strong candidate to start” at the open left guard position for the team. Jones, 27, brings experience to the 49ers’ interior offensive line, having played in 49 games with 30 starts during his first four seasons with the Miami Dolphins. The undrafted rookie from Middle Tennessee State primarily served as left guard under former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, where he became a 17-game starter in 2024. His familiarity with McDaniel’s offensive schemes is expected to ease the transition to Kyle Shanahan’s system, which the 49ers hope will help solidify their offensive line. The Dallas Cowboys signed Jones in free agency in 2025, but he suffered a neck injury during training camp and missed the entire season. This setback limited his playing time, but his physical tools and versatility as a left guard make him an attractive option for the 49ers. With the team looking to rebuild its offensive line, Jones’ arrival addresses a critical need. The 49ers have made several changes to their offensive line this offseason, including letting go of Spencer Burford in free agency and failing to re-sign Ben Bartch, the Week 1 starter at left guard in 2025. Bartch was sidelined by injury early in the season, and rookie Connor Colby, a seventh-round pick, struggled to step in. Burford eventually took over the starting role, but the lack of depth has been a concern.#san_francisco_49ers #miami_dolphins #kyle_shanahan #dallas_cowboys #robert_jones
49ers' Rob Jones Signs With San Francisco The San Francisco 49ers are preparing to sign Rob Jones to a contract, according to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network. The move comes after Jones, who missed the entire 2025 season following a season-ending neck injury sustained while playing for the Dallas Cowboys in late July, is expected to be fully recovered and ready to compete for a starting role with the 49ers. Jones’ absence in 2025 was due to the injury, which forced him into a season-ending stint on injured reserve with the Cowboys. The 49ers’ decision to bring him aboard suggests they see him as a potential key contributor, particularly given his track record of starting games during his time with the Miami Dolphins from 2021 to 2024. During that period, Jones started 30 of the 49 games in which he appeared, showcasing his reliability and ability to perform under pressure. The 49ers’ interest in Jones aligns with their efforts to bolster their roster ahead of the 2026 season. His experience as a starting quarterback in the NFL, combined with his recent recovery from a significant injury, positions him as a valuable asset. While the details of his contract remain undisclosed, the 49ers’ commitment to securing his services indicates confidence in his ability to contribute immediately. Jones’ journey has been marked by resilience. After the injury that sidelined him in 2025, he has reportedly made a full recovery and is now focused on reestablishing himself in the league. The 49ers’ decision to pursue him reflects their belief in his potential to play a pivotal role in their offensive strategy. With the team looking to build a competitive roster, Jones’ signing could be a significant step in that direction. The 49ers’ move also highlights the importance of depth and versatility in modern NFL teams.#tom_pelissero #san_francisco_49ers #nfl_network #dallas_cowboys #rob_jones
NFL Free Agency: 49ers WR Jauan Jennings Named Best Free Agent Left The San Francisco 49ers have re-signed several key players this offseason, but a handful of former roster members remain unsigned, including wide receiver Jauan Jennings. ESPN analyst Matt Bowen recently ranked Jennings as the top free agent still available on the market, highlighting his value despite not being a top-tier starter. Jennings, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 213 pounds, has established himself as a reliable route runner capable of operating in tight coverage. His ability to consistently make himself available to the quarterback for in-breaking routes has made him a dependable target. Last season, he caught 55 passes for nine touchdowns while playing through a challenging 49ers offense that dealt with multiple injuries. His performance improved further in 2024, when he ranked 12th in ESPN’s receiver scoring metrics and recorded 975 receiving yards. Despite agreeing to a restructured contract last summer, which included performance incentives, Jennings has sought a long-term extension to secure his financial future. With the 49ers still holding significant cap space after the initial wave of free agency signings, the team faces a critical decision on whether to reunite with Jennings. While Jennings is not a traditional No. 1 wideout, his role as a reliable slot or outside receiver has been valuable. The 49ers’ offense is expected to benefit from the addition of Mike Evans in 2026, which could ease the competition for targets. This dynamic may also create opportunities for other key players like Christian McCaffrey, Ricky Pearsall, and George Kittle, who is set to return from injury. The 49ers’ free agency strategy will be closely watched as they balance rebuilding with maintaining competitiveness.#san_francisco_49ers #mike_evans #jauan_jennings #matt_bowen #christian_mccaffrey
Landing spots for top remaining NFL free agents: Jauan Jennings heads list NFL teams have been actively pursuing free agents this offseason, with significant deals already finalized. The new league year began with players agreeing to contracts totaling $2.3 billion in the first eight hours of free agency. Pass rusher Jaelan Phillips secured the largest deal of the period, signing a four-year, $120 million contract with the Carolina Panthers. The Indianapolis Colts retained both wide receiver Alec Pierce and quarterback Daniel Jones, with Pierce agreeing to a four-year, $114 million deal—the most lucrative for a wide receiver in free agency history. Jones, meanwhile, reportedly signed a two-year, $88 million contract, making him one of only four quarterbacks in NFL history to receive multiyear deals worth $40 million per season. Despite the activity, several high-profile players remain unsigned. Veteran pass rusher Joey Bosa, who led the NFL with five forced fumbles in his lone season with the Buffalo Bills, is a key name in the conversation. The 31-year-old has recorded 77 career sacks since his rookie year in 2016, ranking 10th in the league. The San Francisco 49ers, who struggled with a league-worst 20 sacks in 2025, could benefit from Bosa’s addition. The team also has former first-round pick Mykel Williams returning from a torn ACL, but their pass rush remains a concern. Wide receiver Jauan Jennings, an underrated talent with a career year in 2024 and a strong 2025 season, is another top free agent. The 6-foot-3, 212-pound receiver caught 77 passes for 975 yards and six touchdowns in 2024, then 55 passes for 643 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025. He ranks second on the 49ers in receptions and receiving yards over the past two seasons and is tied with George Kittle for most touchdowns.#indianapolis_colts #san_francisco_49ers #carolina_panters #tennessee_titans #jauan_jennings
Former 49ers Safety Jason Pinnock Signs With Giants The New York Giants have signed former San Francisco 49ers safety Jason Pinnock, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. Pinnock, an unrestricted free agent, returns to the Giants after previously playing for the team from 2022 to 2024. He spent the 2025 season with the 49ers on a one-year contract, where he appeared in 17 games, starting seven, and recorded 41 combined tackles. Pinnock entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick (175th overall) in the 2021 draft, selected by the New York Jets. After his rookie season with the Jets, he joined the Giants for three seasons, starting 37 games. Over his five-year NFL career, Pinnock has played in 75 games, with 46 starts, accumulating 268 tackles (13 for a loss), 6.5 sacks, 11 passes defensed, five forced fumbles, and two interceptions. One of his notable plays came in the 2023 season, when he returned an interception for a 102-yard touchdown. The Giants’ decision to re-sign Pinnock reflects his experience and contributions as a defensive back. His return adds depth to the team’s secondary, particularly as they look to strengthen their coverage options. Pinnock’s ability to make plays in critical moments, such as his touchdown return, highlights his value as a versatile player. Pinnock’s career trajectory has included multiple team changes, but his consistent performance has kept him relevant in the league. His signing with the Giants underscores the team’s focus on bolstering their defensive unit ahead of the 2026 season. As he reunites with a former team, Pinnock’s experience and track record position him as a reliable asset for the Giants’ defensive strategy.#nfl #san_francisco_49ers #new_york_giants #jordan_schultz #jason_pinnock
NFL free agency: 49ers DB Jason Pinnock signing with Giants The San Francisco 49ers faced a pressing need to strengthen their safety room this offseason as they entered free agency, but the situation has become more urgent following the departure of one of their safeties to another team. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, former 49ers defensive back Jason Pinnock has agreed to a deal with the New York Giants. Pinnock, 26, was selected in the fifth round (No. 175 overall) of the 2021 NFL draft by the New York Jets out of Pittsburgh. During his NFL career, he spent one season with the Jets, three with the Giants, and one with the 49ers. This past season, he played in all 17 games for San Francisco, contributing 46% of the team’s defensive snaps and 20% of their special teams snaps. He recorded 41 tackles in 2025. The 49ers’ safety room for the 2026 season now consists of Malik Mustapha, Ji'Ayir Brown, Marques Sigle, Derrick Canteen, and Darrick Forrest. The loss of Pinnock leaves the team with fewer options to bolster their defensive backfield, raising concerns about their ability to compete in the upcoming season. The move underscores the competitive nature of free agency in the NFL, where teams often prioritize immediate impact over long-term investments. Pinnock’s departure highlights the challenges teams face in retaining talent while navigating the complexities of the league’s free agent market. With the Giants securing Pinnock’s services, the 49ers must now focus on addressing their defensive shortcomings through the draft or additional free agent signings. The situation reflects the broader trend of teams reshaping their rosters to adapt to evolving competition and strategic priorities.#san_francisco_49ers #new_york_giants #jason_pinnock #malik_mustapha #jiayir_brown
New York Giants Reach Agreement with Safety Jason Pinnock The New York Giants have reached an agreement with safety Jason Pinnock, pending a physical examination. The move marks Pinnock’s return to the team after a season with the San Francisco 49ers, where he made 17 appearances and started seven games. Prior to joining the 49ers, Pinnock spent three seasons with the Giants from 2022 to 2024, during which he played in 46 games and started 37. Throughout his career, Pinnock has accumulated notable statistics, including 263 total tackles (13 for loss), 11 passes defensed, 11 quarterback hits, 6.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and two interceptions. His most memorable play for the Giants came in 2023, when he intercepted a pass and returned it 102 yards for a touchdown. This performance tied him with Erich Barnes for the longest interception return in Giants history, as Barnes achieved the same feat in 1961 against the Dallas Cowboys. Pinnock’s 102-yard return also joined Henry Carr’s 101-yard touchdown in 1966 as the third instance in Giants history where an interception was returned at least 100 yards. Pinnock entered the NFL as a fifth-round draft pick by the New York Jets in 2021. Before his professional career, he played college football at the University of Pittsburgh, where he appeared in 42 games over four seasons (2017–2020). His return to the Giants adds depth to the team’s secondary, particularly with his ability to contribute both as a pass defender and a return specialist. The physical examination is the next step in finalizing the deal, which is expected to be completed soon.#san_francisco_49ers #new_york_giants #new_york_jets #jason_pinnock #university_of_pittsburgh
NYT Connections: Sports Edition Puzzle Answers for March 11, #534 The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for March 11, 2026, features four distinct categories, each with four related terms. The puzzle is published by The Athletic, a subscription-based sports journalism platform, and is available through its app or online. The following breakdown outlines the themes and answers for each color group. The yellow group is centered around the NFC West division, which includes the Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks. These teams are the Super Bowl champions associated with the division. The green group relates to baseball statistics, specifically the term "WHIP." The four answers are "hits," "inning," "pitched," and "walks," all of which are components of the WHIP (Walks plus Hits per Innings Pitched) metric used to evaluate pitchers. The blue group focuses on Hockey Hall of Famers. The four names included are Bobby Orr, Jarome Iginla, and Mark "The Hammer" Messier, though the original text lists "Bossy" (likely referring to Mike Bossy), Iginla, Orr, and "St. Louis" (possibly referring to Jean Béliveau, though the name is abbreviated). The purple group centers on a belt, with the four answers being "black," "Brandon" (possibly a reference to Brandon Sutter or another player), "sun" (as in a sun belt or a belt made of sun material), and "title" (referring to a championship belt). The theme is intentionally vague, requiring solvers to connect the words to the concept of a belt. The puzzle highlights the diversity of sports terminology, blending team affiliations, statistical metrics, and equipment or titles. Solvers are encouraged to consider both direct and metaphorical connections to uncover the groupings.#new_york_times #los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #arizona_cardinals #the_athletic
