In a somewhat surprising move in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected kicker Jake Moody out of the University of Michigan with the 99th overall pick. …

The move came as a surprise to many, as it is rare for a team to select a kicker this high in the draft. However, the 49ers had a clear need at the position, as veteran kicker Robbie Gould is not returning to the team. Moody is widely regarded as the top kicker in the draft class and is considered one of the best kickers in Michigan's history.

While some may question the value of selecting a kicker in the third round, the 49ers will save a significant amount of money against the salary cap by going with a rookie rather than a seasoned veteran. Additionally, the team did not have a fourth-round pick, where other kickers were expected to come off the board.

It's a big job for Moody to fill Gould's shoes, as the veteran kicker held down the position for the 49ers for the past six seasons. However, the team clearly believes in Moody's ability and potential, and they were willing to take a risk to address their need at the position. Moody had an exceptional college career, and was exceptional inside of 50 yards:
XP: 116-116 (100%)
20-39 yards: 38-39 (97.4%)
40-49 yards: 10-13 (77%)


The 49ers may have been able to trade down and still select Moody, but that would have been a risky move given that kicker was the only starting spot on the roster without an incumbent in place. Additionally, selecting a kicker over the 101st spot where the team selected tight end Latu will save the team money against the cap, as tight ends typically earn more than kickers.

Overall, the selection of Jake Moody in the third round of the draft was a bold move by the 49ers, but it shows that the team is committed to addressing their needs and finding the best players to fill those roles. Only time will tell if Moody can live up to the expectations and replace Robbie Gould as the team's starting kicker.