The San Francisco 49ers are adding veteran kicker Matthew Wright to their roster after starting kicker Jake Moody sustained a high ankle sprain. The injury, which will sideline Moody for Thursday night’s game against the Seattle Seahawks, prompted the team to seek a replacement. In addition to Wright, the 49ers evaluated several other kickers during tryouts, including Randy Bullock, Riley Patterson, Anders Carlson, and Matt Coghlin, before deciding on Wright, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Moody’s injury occurred during the 49ers’ narrow 24-23 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. The moment came in the second quarter, following a blocked field goal that resulted in a touchdown for the 49ers. On the ensuing kickoff, Moody aimed for a touchback but ended up giving the Cardinals’ returner, DeeJay Dallas, a chance to advance the ball. While trying to make a tackle along the sideline, Moody fell awkwardly, bending over his right leg in a way that caused the injury.
Visibly frustrated, Moody immediately reacted by throwing his helmet after realizing the extent of his injury. He later revealed that the play was eerily similar to one from his past, dating back to when he broke his leg in eighth grade while making a tackle. This unfortunate incident now leaves the 49ers without their primary kicker for at least one game.
Matthew Wright brings experience and reliability to the 49ers as a temporary solution. Having previously played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, and Carolina Panthers, Wright has a solid track record. Over his career, he has successfully made 40 out of 47 field goal attempts and converted 35 out of 37 extra points, positioning him as a capable fill-in for Moody.
The 49ers are counting on Wright to deliver consistent results during Moody’s absence. The upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks will be a significant test for Wright, as special teams often play a pivotal role in close contests. His experience across multiple NFL teams gives the 49ers confidence that they can rely on him to perform under pressure while Moody recovers from his ankle sprain.
