A Kicker on the Move—Again
Jake Moody, once hailed as the San Francisco 49ers’ answer at kicker, is making headlines for a very different reason this week. The Washington Commanders have signed Moody off the Chicago Bears’ practice squad, a move that could shake up special teams for both franchises and marks yet another twist in Moody’s turbulent NFL journey.
From 49ers Frustration to Bears Backup
Moody’s 2025 season has been anything but smooth. After a string of high-profile misses—including a 27-yard field goal and a blocked 36-yarder in a tense win over the Seahawks—frustration boiled over on the 49ers’ sideline. Players were seen throwing helmets, and head coach Kyle Shanahan was forced to defend his embattled kicker in postgame interviews, insisting there was “no question” Moody would remain the starter, though his tone left room for speculation.
Even star defender Nick Bosa publicly backed Moody, saying, “I’ll never turn on a teammate,” but the locker room’s patience was clearly wearing thin. The 49ers’ decision to keep the offense on the field for key fourth downs instead of trusting Moody spoke volumes about the team’s confidence—or lack thereof—in their kicker.
Chicago Bears: A Brief Stop
After his struggles in San Francisco, Moody landed on the Chicago Bears’ practice squad. He made an immediate impact, nailing a game-winning field goal earlier this season, but remained a backup option as the Bears juggled their own special teams depth. His reliability in clutch moments kept him on the radar for teams in need of a steady leg.
Commanders Make Their Move
The Washington Commanders, having just cut veteran kicker Matt Gay, wasted no time in signing Moody to fill the void. According to multiple reports, the Commanders are hoping Moody’s fresh start in D.C. will help stabilize their kicking game after a rocky stretch.
This move leaves the Bears scrambling for depth at kicker and puts Moody back in the NFL spotlight. For the Commanders, it’s a calculated risk: Moody’s talent is undeniable, but his recent inconsistency means the pressure is on to deliver immediately.
What’s Next for Jake Moody?
Moody’s journey is a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL, especially for kickers. He’s gone from a high-profile draft pick and starter in San Francisco to a practice squad role in Chicago, and now, a potential savior for Washington’s special teams.
The Commanders’ faith in Moody could pay off if he regains his confidence and accuracy. But with fans and teammates watching closely, every kick will be under the microscope.
Key Takeaways:
- Jake Moody joins the Washington Commanders after being signed off the Bears’ practice squad.
- His recent struggles with the 49ers led to frustration among teammates and coaches.
- The Bears lose a reliable backup, while the Commanders hope Moody can solve their kicking woes.
- Moody’s NFL journey highlights the high-stakes, high-pressure world of professional kickers.
Sources
1. JUST IN: Bears Lose Veteran ST Piece + Ben Johnson ... - YouTube
2. Several 49ers players finally sound fed up with Jake Moody - SFGATE
3. Washington Commanders Roster Moves: Jake Moody signed to replace Matt Gay
4. Windy City Gridiron
5. Commanders to sign K Jake Moody off Bears practice squad
6. Chicago Bears sign Jake Moody to the practice squad
7. Jake Moody - Chicago Bears Place Kicker - ESPN
8. Golden Nuggets: Another day, another OTA - Niners Nation
