The San Francisco 49ers have made a notable addition to their defensive backfield during a quiet free agency period. They signed Jason Pinnock to a one-year, fully guaranteed $2.2 million deal, suggesting they see potential in him for a starting role. Pinnock has experience as both a cornerback and a safety, which is advantageous considering the 49ers' current needs.

While Pinnock's contract indicates he might compete for a starting position, it doesn't guarantee his spot on the roster. The 49ers will face stiff competition from Ji'Ayir Brown and fellow free-agent acquisition Richie Grant, particularly for the safety position. Pinnock's transition to cornerback, if it happens, would mark a new challenge in his career. The team needs reliable players in the secondary, and Pinnock must prove he can handle the pressure of competing for a starting role in a competitive environment.

The New York Giants are actively searching for a new quarterback, with general manager Joe Schoen exploring various avenues, including potential trades. One intriguing option put forth by Bleacher Report's Maurice Moton is to acquire Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins. The proposed trade would see the Giants giving up their 2025 fourth-round pick along with safety Dane Belton, who has shown promise despite limited playing time.

Moton's rationale for including a fourth-round pick remains unclear, though the Giants are expected to receive an extra fourth-rounder due to safety Xavier McKinney's departure in free agency. Cousins, if he agrees to waive his no-trade clause, would bring his $27.5 million salary in 2025 to the Giants, a fully guaranteed amount.

However, the trade would be a bold move, especially since Belton has demonstrated his potential with 74 tackles and five interceptions over three seasons. The Giants might be better off waiting to see if the Falcons will release Cousins, given the significant financial implications involved in such a transaction.

New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen faces a challenging offseason after the team recorded its worst-ever season in 2024. With the pressure to justify the trust of co-owners John Mara and Steve Tisch, Schoen must address significant roster deficiencies while avoiding the pitfalls of last year's approach.

First on Schoen's agenda is a truthful evaluation of the current roster, acknowledging the key areas needing improvement, particularly at quarterback, running back, and the offensive line. Secondly, the Giants need to secure a reliable quarterback, having missed chances to draft from a strong class in 2023. Lastly, the defensive unit requires urgent upgrades, as the squad allowed excessive yards and touchdowns, questioning the effectiveness of the current scheme.

Michael Penix Jr. made a successful debut as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, leading them to a 34-7 victory over the struggling New York Giants. The Falcons' defense shone with two interception returns for touchdowns, contributing significantly to the win.

Penix completed 18 of 27 passes for 202 yards, despite some dropped passes. The Falcons improved to 8-7, enhancing their playoff chances, while the Giants suffered their franchise-record 10th consecutive loss.

Michael Penix Jr. secured his first victory as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, leading the team to a decisive 34-7 win over the struggling New York Giants. The Falcons' defense was instrumental, with Jessie Bates and Matthew Judon each recording interception returns for touchdowns.

Despite a rocky start, Penix completed 18 of 27 passes for 202 yards. The Giants, now on a franchise-record 10-game losing streak, struggled offensively, with Drew Lock throwing two pick-6s.