Jake Moody sparks kicker debate after game-winning performance against Commanders
Jake Moody has suddenly thrust himself into the spotlight of the Chicago Bears’ kicking situation. Filling in for Cairo Santos, he nailed four field goals, including a dramatic game-winner against the Washington Commanders, raising the question: Is he the permanent solution the Bears have been seeking?
Bears riding a wave of success
The Bears are currently enjoying a three-game winning streak, but with that success comes a potential kicker controversy. In the unpredictable realm of NFL special teams, teams often find themselves navigating tricky waters. A prime example is the Buffalo Bills, who started the season with Tyler Bass. Following his injury before Week 1, they brought in veteran kicker Matt Prater, who has since converted 10 of 11 field goal attempts, including a pivotal game-winner against the Ravens.
Cairo Santos: The incumbent
Santos, the most accurate kicker in Bears history with an impressive 89.2 percent success rate, has been a reliable figure for the team. He also serves as a captain, adding leadership to his role. However, he is acutely aware of the cutthroat nature of the NFL. Santos earned his position after stepping up during the 2020 training camp when Eddy Pineiro was sidelined due to injury, and he has held onto the job ever since.
Despite his consistency, questions linger about his ability to convert from longer distances. Santos missed a critical 50-yard attempt in Week 1 against the Vikings, a miss that directly contributed to Minnesota’s comeback. In contrast, Moody has already demonstrated his range, successfully making a 57-yard field goal—while Santos’s career long stands at 55 yards, with a 66 percent success rate from 50-plus yards.
The emergence of Jake Moody
Moody’s journey took an interesting turn after he was signed as insurance following his release by the San Francisco 49ers. The Bears elevated him from the practice squad just before their matchup with the Commanders. In a test of nerves and skill, he delivered under pressure, hitting four field goals, including a crucial 38-yarder that sealed the game victory in a challenging weather setting at Northwest Stadium.
His teammates recognized his effort, lifting him into the air in celebration, while offensive coordinator Ben Johnson presented him with a game ball. Johnson expressed confidence in Moody, highlighting his consistent performance in practice and previous big-game experience. “I think that change of scenery was good for him,” Johnson remarked, emphasizing his belief in Moody’s capabilities.
The unpredictable nature of NFL kicking
Moody understands the volatile landscape of NFL kicking, reflecting on the importance of performance. “You’re only as good as your next kick,” he stated, encapsulating the pressure that comes with the job. The pressing question now is whether his next opportunity will come as a member of the active roster or back on the practice squad.
With the Bears set to face the New Orleans Saints at Soldier Field next Sunday, Halas Hall faces a pivotal decision regarding their kicking situation. The future of Jake Moody hangs in the balance, but one thing is clear: after his standout performance, he has made a significant impression on the team and its fans alike.
