UPDATE: The San Francisco 49ers faced mounting concerns following their 17-13 victory over the Seattle Seahawks on September 7, 2025. While they secured a crucial win to kick off their NFL season, injuries and kicker struggles have left fans anxious.
Star tight end George Kittle exited the game early due to a hamstring injury and is expected to miss several weeks. Quarterback Brock Purdy also suffered a shoulder and toe injury that could sideline him for Week 2. The spotlight, however, is on kicker Jake Moody, who continues to evoke frustration among the fanbase.
Despite a critical field goal that tied the game, Moody missed two earlier attempts, raising questions about his position on the team. Coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in Moody, stating, “Right now, I have no question,” when asked if Moody’s job was in jeopardy. He emphasized the need to evaluate the situation further, saying, “I’m trying to finish today, get on a plane and evaluate stuff.”
However, Shanahan also hinted at exploring options, confirming that the team is reviewing potential alternatives. “We’re looking into all that stuff now, there’s options,” he said. This statement from Shanahan comes as pressure mounts for Moody, who was a third-round draft pick in 2023.
Moody had a promising rookie season, making 84% of his field-goal attempts. However, his performance last season dipped significantly, particularly from beyond 40 yards, where he converted only half of his attempts. In the recent game, one of his kicks hit the uprights, while another was blocked.
Despite these challenges, there were bright spots for the 49ers. Star running back Christian McCaffrey defied injury concerns to rush for 69 yards and added 73 receiving yards on nine catches. Additionally, rookie receiver Ricky Pearsall showcased his talent with 108 yards on just four receptions, including a pivotal 45-yard catch that set up the game-winning touchdown.
Defensively, Nick Bosa delivered a game-saving sack on Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, forcing a fumble with just 42 seconds left in the game, solidifying the 49ers’ victory.
As the 49ers prepare for their next matchup, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team addresses its kicker situation and manages player injuries. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.