San Francisco 49ers Sign Kicker Josh Wright Amid Injury Concerns

The San Francisco 49ers have addressed a significant need in their roster by signing veteran kicker Josh Wright to a one-year contract. This move comes as the team navigates injury complications, with second-year kicker Jake Moody sidelined due to a high ankle sprain. The 49ers expedited tryouts and secured Wright’s contract ahead of their upcoming travel to Seattle on Wednesday.

Josh Wright, who has previously been a part of several NFL teams including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, and Carolina Panthers, brings experience to the team. Wright has a career record of 40-of-47 on field goal attempts and 35-of-37 on extra points.

With numerous injuries affecting the team’s lineup, especially in the secondary, the 49ers face additional challenges. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan announced that starting safety Talanoa Hufanga suffered torn ligaments in his wrist, which could sideline him for at least a month. The injury complicates matters as Hufanga recently returned from an ACL injury, participating in two games this season.

Other players dealing with injuries include second-year safety Elijah Mitchell, who is dealing with an ankle issue, and cornerback Deommodore Lenoir, who has a knee injury. Both were limited participants in the team’s recent workout session.

Amid these setbacks, the team is relying on rookie safety Malik Mustapha to step into a more prominent role in the defense. Mustapha, who debuted as a starter against the New England Patriots, played 100% of the defensive snaps in Week 4 and continued his significant participation following Hufanga’s injury.

“I feel like I’m getting more comfortable with the reps these past few weeks,” said Mustapha. “Now, it’s about how I can take my game to the next level by being more consistent. The guys have faith in me, and I must have the same faith in myself to execute at a high level.”

Additionally, All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner praised Mustapha’s development, saying, “He’s been great. I love the way that he plays. Kyle talks about zero hesitation and playing with his hair on fire, and I really like the way that he has been playing.”

The signing of Wright and the reshuffling in the secondary are part of San Francisco’s strategic moves to maintain competitive play as they face the Seattle Seahawks.