Jake Moody’s Struggles Highlight Challenges for NFL Kickers

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Young kickers like Jake Moody often face difficulties in the NFL. Drafted in the third round by the San Francisco 49ers in 2023, Moody has seen his career begin with challenges, especially following an uneven performance in Week 1 against Seattle.

Moody’s experience reflects a disappointing trend for early-drafted kickers. Roberto Aguayo, picked in the second round by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2016, was cut before his second season after ranking last in field goal percentage as a rookie. Cade York, drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2022, was let go after just one season. In contrast, Moody has been described by experts as among the best kicking prospects in recent years.

Unlike Aguayo, who kicked for Florida State, Moody honed his skills in Michigan, becoming renowned for his performance under pressure at the University of Michigan. Jim Harbaugh, his former coach, praised Moody as “Money Moody,” suggesting he could succeed early in the NFL.

Despite a promising start, where he made 21 of 25 field goals as a rookie, Moody struggled during the latter part of the 2024 season. The 49ers attributed his decline to a hasty return from a serious ankle injury. Defining moments included a missed kick from 27 yards in a crucial game against Seattle.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed concerns about Moody’s mental state: “When it gets to that point, you can see it affecting him from a mental standpoint.” This led the coaching staff to consider his future with the team.

Former 49ers kicker Joe Nedney highlighted that young kickers often face tremendous pressure. When Nedney began his career in 1995, the league average for field goal percentage was 77.4%. Last season, that figure reached a record 85.7%. Nedney noted that the expectations can distort perceptions of young talent, especially after high draft selections.

Another challenge is the coaching environment for kickers. Only a few teams have full-time specialists, and many young kickers compete with limited support. Brandon Kornblue, a specialist who has worked with several NFL kickers, stressed that the lack of competitive environments during rookie seasons can hinder development.

General Manager John Lynch stated that the 49ers faced tight decisions regarding Moody’s future. On one hand, he is a talented player; on the other, the growing pressure and expectations complicate the situation for developing kickers.

As the team has brought in veteran Eddy Piñeiro to potentially take over kicking duties, the challenges faced by kickers like Moody could keep unfolding throughout the season.