49ers Sign Kicker Matthew Wright as Injury Sidelines Jake Moody
Matthew Wright Joins the San Francisco 49ers
On October 8, 2024, the San Francisco 49ers announced they are bringing in experienced kicker Matthew Wright. The decision came after Jake Moody sustained a high ankle sprain, which will see him sidelined for the upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Search for a Replacement
The 49ers also trialed multiple potential replacements, including kickers Randy Bullock, Riley Patterson, Anders Carlson, and Matt Coghlin, before finally settling on Wright.
Jake Moody’s Injury
The incident leading to Moody’s injury occurred towards the end of the second quarter during the 49ers’ narrow 24-23 defeat to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. After a blocked field goal attempt by 49ers’ defensive tackle Jordan Elliott resulted in a 61-yard touchdown return by cornerback Deommodore Lenoir, Moody aimed for a touchback on the following kickoff.
Details of the Incident
Moody, kicking against the wind, did not quite get the lift he wanted on the ball, providing Cardinals returner DeeJay Dallas with a chance to run it back. Dallas managed to evade the initial line of 49ers’ defense and came into contact with Moody on the left side of the field. During the attempted tackle, Moody was pushed backward, causing his body to fold over his right kicking leg. The incident triggered a memory of a similar injury he sustained in eighth grade, leading to him slamming his helmet in frustration.
Matthew Wright’s Career
Wright, who previously kicked for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, and Carolina Panthers, has a commendable record. He has successfully made 40 out of 47 field goal attempts and missed only two of his 37 extra points attempts throughout his career.
