Jake Moody joins Bears as Kicking Insurance Amid Santos Concerns
Former San Francisco 49ers kicker Jake Moody has quickly found a new home after being released just days ago. The Chicago Bears have signed him to their practice squad, offering some crucial backup for their current kicker, Cairo Santos.
A Rollercoaster Career So Far
Moody, selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, serves as a reminder of the risks associated with investing high draft capital in kickers. While the Michigan alum enjoyed a promising rookie season, converting 84% of his field goal attempts, his performance took a significant downturn in 2024. He managed only 70.6% accuracy before being cut after Week 1, following a disappointing outing where he missed two field goals in a narrow 17-13 victory.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan reflected on Moody’s potential, noting, “I think Jake has a chance to have a hell of a future; he is that talented.” However, he acknowledged the mental toll that pressure can take on a kicker, especially in light of last year’s struggles. “When it gets to that spot where it is… we know how everyone was looking at him. You could see it affect him from a mental game,” Shanahan added.
The Kicking Competition in Chicago
As Moody steps into the Bears’ organization, the path to a starting role appears challenging. Cairo Santos, who has been the team’s primary kicker since 2020, is facing scrutiny after a less-than-stellar performance last season and a missed field goal in Week 1 of this year. While Santos has proven himself over the years, his recent inconsistency could open the door for Moody to make an impact.
In response to Moody’s departure, the 49ers have signed Eddy Pineiro, indicating a swift move to shore up their own kicking game.
Looking Ahead
For Moody, this opportunity with the Bears presents a chance to regain his footing in the league. As he familiarizes himself with a new team and environment, all eyes will be on how he handles the pressure and whether he can provide the support needed for Chicago’s kicking unit moving forward.
