49ers SHOCKER: Moody CUT After Opener Meltdown! What's Next?
In a stunning turn of events, the San Francisco 49ers have decided to waive kicker Jake Moody after a shaky performance in their season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. The news, first reported by NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, signals a significant shift in the 49ers' special teams strategy just one game into the 2025 season.
Moody's struggles were apparent during Sunday's game at Lumen Field. He missed a 27-yard field goal, had a 36-yard attempt blocked, and while he did connect on a 32-yarder, it wasn't enough to save his job. Coach Kyle Shanahan initially expressed confidence in Moody after the game, but later hinted that changes could be on the horizon. Those changes have now materialized.
The 49ers drafted Moody in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, making him the highest kicker drafted since 2016. He had a promising rookie season, converting 21 of 25 field goal attempts (84%). However, his performance dipped in 2024, with a success rate of just 70.6% on field goals.
The question now is: who will replace Moody? Veteran Greg Joseph, who competed with Moody during training camp, is currently a free agent. Joseph's familiarity with the team could make him a frontrunner for the job. The 49ers will likely explore all available options before making a final decision.
What Went Wrong for Moody?
Moody's struggles can be attributed to a combination of factors. A high ankle sprain suffered in Week 5 of the 2024 season seemed to impact his confidence and consistency. The pressure of being a high draft pick may have also played a role.
Possible Replacements for Moody
- Greg Joseph: A veteran kicker with experience in the NFL and familiarity with the 49ers' system.
- Free Agent Kickers: The 49ers could explore other free agent options to find a kicker with a proven track record.
- Practice Squad Promotion: The team could potentially promote a kicker from their practice squad.
The 49ers' decision to cut ties with Moody highlights the importance of consistent performance in the NFL. The team will now focus on finding a reliable kicker to solidify their special teams unit as they pursue a Super Bowl title.