Jake Moody still holds the 49ers kicking job despite rough start: Here’s why
49ers kicker Jake Moody made one of his three field-goal attempts against the Seahawks on Sunday in Seattle. Image Credit: Lindsey Wasson/Associated Press
Kicker Jake Moody endured a rough Week 1 with the San Francisco 49ers, missing a short 27-yard field goal by banging it off the left upright, and later having a 36-yard attempt blocked during their nail-biting win against the Seahawks. These misses echoed critics of his 2024 campaign, where he converted 24 of 34 field goals, well below league average.
Despite the struggles, coach Kyle Shanahan emphatically declared there’s “no question” Moody remains the 49ers’ kicker heading into Week 2. His remark offered stability but didn’t fully erase underlying concerns among teammates and fans.
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Tight Room Tensions Following The Kick Failures
The 49ers’ locker room displayed visible frustration after the kicking mishaps. Reports surfaced of “ticked-off” players tossing helmets and expressing exasperation, although some, like Nick Bosa, defended Moody as a fixture worth preserving. The special teams unit was flagged as a weak link, nearly derailing what became a 17-13 win.
Secondary reactions underscored how Moody’s inconsistencies could expose deeper unity issues if not addressed, especially considering the key offensive injuries and the revamped special teams staff this season.
From College Standout to Itinerant Pro
Jake Moody entered the NFL amid high expectations. As a dominant kicker for Michigan, capturing All-American honors, Big Ten awards, and the Lou Groza Award, he was regarded as an elite prospect. The 49ers drafted him in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, making him one of the rare kickers selected that high.
His rookie season earned him PFWA All-Rookie Team recognition, and he even delivered a 57-yard field goal in the Super Bowl. That early promise has made his current slump increasingly hard to reconcile as expectations ascend.
What Lies Ahead for Jake Moody and San Francisco?
For now, Jake Moody holds his job, but he’s far from secure. Shanahan promised a thorough evaluation after the trip home, suggesting this week could be pivotal. A convenient Week 2 matchup in New Orleans might offer redemption or further expose his inconsistency.
If Moody stumbles again, the 49ers could look back to veterans or younger hopefuls. But for now, they’re gambling on temperament, talent, and redemption, traits that have kept Moody alive despite growing doubts.