Gifford will be a depth piece for the linebacking corps, but where he’s excelled over the last couple of years is on special teams. He’ll help improve that unit while backing up the inside backers on the 49ers’ defense.

Gifford entered concussion protocol after hitting his head in the second quarter. He had a first-quarter interception, but is less likely to return as he headed to the locker room for evaluation. Gifford was listed as questionable to re-enter the game.

Gifford was a standout special teams player in Dallas, leading the team in special teams snaps and tackles last season. After four years with the Cowboys, he'll move on to Tennessee, which Pro Football Focus graded as 2022's third best special teams unit. 

Dallas didn't extend a tender to Gifford, who was a restricted free agent, but managed to bring him back on a cheaper deal anyway. Gifford plays almost exclusively on special teams. he logged 368 snaps on special teams last year, notching 11 combined tackles in the process.