Jake Moody, the San Francisco 49ers kicker, had a rollercoaster Week 10 performance, missing three important field goals before making the game-winning kick against the Tampa Bay Bucs.
Despite the rough outing, General Manager John Lynch and Coach Kyle Shanahan remain confident in the 24-year-old kicker, citing his talent, mental toughness, and potential for development.
Lynch addressed Moody’s troubles head on during a radio appearance on KNBR’s Murph & Markus, emphasizing the organization’s belief in the rookie kicker.
Lynch: “We never considered replacing Moody”
“He hit the game-winning field goal,” Lynch stated.
“We have high expectations for him, and Jake has even higher expectations for himself. He’s gone to work fixing whatever technique was off, and he’ll get it right. We have a lot of confidence in that kid.”
Lynch dismissed the idea of replacing Moody, calling such a move premature and unwarranted. Instead, he pointed to Moody’s impressive track record: a near-perfect rookie season with 21 of 25 field goals made and a spotless 60-for-60 in extra points.
SHANAHAN PRAISES MOODY’S RESILIENCE
Coach Shanahan echoed Lynch’s sentiments, praising Moody’s mental toughness under pressure. The young kicker’s ability to rebound and seal the win showcased his determination and resilience-qualities both Lynch and Shanahan believe will serve him well in the long run.
Moody’s recent ankle injury, sustained during a Week 5 game against the Arizona Cardinals, sidelined him for three games. Sunday’s match marked his return, and while it was far from flawless, Lynch and Shanahan remain optimistic about his trajectory.
Building for the future
Drafted in the third round out of Michigan, Moody’s talent is undeniable. Lynch noted that several teams were eyeing Moody in the draft, further validating their decision to select him early.
“Jake brings a lot of value,” Lynch said.
“We believe he’s going to evolve into a top-level kicker in this league. He’s got the talent, and more importantly, the mindset.”
While the internet erupted with calls for a new kicker, the 49ers are adamant about standing by Moody. At just 23 years old, his journey in the NFL is only beginning, and both Lynch and Shanahan are confident that consistency will come with time.
For now, the 49ers are all in on Moody, trusting that his potential far outweighs any temporary setbacks.
