49ers Jason Pinnock Joins Defense, Seeks Starting Role Amid Veteran Departures

The San Francisco 49ers have opened competition for their starting safety positions, with Jason Pinnock emerging as a strong candidate due to his familiarity with defensive coordinator Robert Saleh's system from their time together with the New York Jets. Pinnock, who transitioned from cornerback to safety and has shown growth in pre-snap awareness and athleticism, is expected to fill the void left by Talanoa Hufanga's departure, bringing versatility in coverage, run defense, and pass rushing. While not yet at an All-Pro level, Pinnock's progression and experience make him a valuable asset for the 49ers' defense. Concurrently, veteran defensive end Nick Bosa is stepping up as a leader amid the departure of key veterans, mentoring new additions like first-round pick Mykel Williams and fostering a culture of growth and accountability. Bosa emphasizes the importance of leadership beyond personal performance, aiming to bring the team together and help younger players develop through constructive feedback. These moves reflect the 49ers' strategy to rebuild leadership and talent on defense for the 2025 season.