Jake Moody has drawn attention as a talented placekicker whose trajectory carries both highs and lows. From his record-setting days at Michigan to the pressures of the NFL and recent roster shifts, his story is one of perseverance.
In this blog, we’ll walk through his background, career achievements, setbacks, and what lies ahead. This is not just a litany of stats, but a narrative of ambition, adaptation, and the fine margins of professional sports.
Early Life and High School Beginnings
Jake Moody grew up in Northville, Michigan, where he attended Northville High School. During his youth he played soccer until around age 11, which helped him develop fundamental kicking coordination. In high school he played both football and baseball, showcasing athletic versatility.
His early experiences with different sports contributed to his mechanics and mental toughness. Scouts began noticing him in high school kicking camps and local competitions. These foundational years set the stage for a collegiate opportunity, even though he initially walked on without a full scholarship.
College Commitment & Walk-on Journey
When Moody committed to the University of Michigan in 2018, it was initially as a walk-on—he didn’t immediately have a scholarship. By June 2018, Michigan recognized his potential and awarded him a scholarship.
This transition reflected his early promise and work ethic. Competing with more established kickers, he gradually earned trust from coaches by delivering in practice and games. His decision to stick through uncertainty rather than transfer underscored his faith in his own development.
Collegiate Records & Breakout Seasons
At Michigan, Moody distinguished himself by setting or breaking several school records. He converted many field goals, especially from long distances, and notched perfect extra point seasons. Over his tenure, he amassed 355 career points, becoming Michigan’s all-time leading scorer. He also tied and exceeded records for 50-plus yard kicks and 40-yard conversions. In 2021 he won the prestigious Lou Groza Award, given to the nation’s top college kicker.
Draft Day & NFL Entry
In 2023, the San Francisco 49ers selected Moody in the third round, pick 99 overall. That made him one of the few kickers to go in the top 100 picks in recent decades. His draft selection reflected high expectations: the 49ers were investing in a kicker they believed could deliver long term. Entering the league from a large program, Moody carried the burden of expectation and scrutiny immediately.
Rookie NFL Season Performance
During his rookie season with San Francisco, Moody’s performance was solid by early metrics. He converted 21 out of 25 field goal attempts, yielding an accuracy rate of 84 %. He also made contributions on kickoffs and extra points. While not flawless, his debut year suggested he might stabilize into a reliable professional kicker. His rookie stats gave some optimism among analysts and fans alike.
Struggles & Decline in Second Season
In his second NFL season, Moody faced challenges with consistency, especially on longer attempts. Reports suggest he converted only 24 of 34 field goal tries. Inside 40 yards he remained accurate, but from 40+ yards his rate dropped significantly. That decline put pressure on his roster spot and led San Francisco to explore alternatives.
Release from San Francisco & Shifting Landscape
In September 2025, the 49ers officially waived Moody following a rocky start to the season and mounting scrutiny over his performance. The team promptly signed veteran Eddy Piñeiro to take over kicking duties. For Moody, this marked a turning point: his position in the league now depended on resilience and finding a new opportunity.
Signing with Chicago & New Opportunity
Shortly after his release, Moody signed with the Chicago Bears’ practice squad. Within weeks, due to an injury to their regular kicker, Cairo Santos, Moody was activated for a Monday Night Football match. In that game, he went 4-for-5 on field goals and nailed the game-winning 38-yard attempt as time expired to give the Bears a 25-24 win. That clutch performance renewed discussions around his potential resurgence.
Strengths, Weaknesses & Skill Profile
Moody’s strengths include leg power and mental fortitude. He has demonstrated the ability to hit long field goals and perform under pressure. His collegiate history shows consistency for midrange kicks.
However, his weaknesses have surfaced at longer distances and in maintaining accuracy under NFL-level volatility. He’s experienced roster insecurity, which may affect confidence. His foot mechanics, environmental conditions, and mental approach will be critical areas for improvement. If he can shore up consistency beyond 40 yards, he might reclaim his footing in the league.
Off-Field Life & Personal Background
Away from the gridiron, Moody maintains a relatively private life. He reportedly is in a long-term relationship with Kamryn Abraskin, whom he met during his Michigan years. Their support for each other has been seen via social media glimpses.
Beyond relationships, Moody’s background as a multi-sport athlete, including baseball, and his earlier soccer experience have shaped his adaptability. His journey through scholarship uncertainty and competition has contributed to his character.
Outlook, Legacy & What’s Next
Looking ahead, Moody’s future depends on proving stability at the professional level. His recent game-winner gives momentum, but sustained performance is essential. If he continues in Chicago or elsewhere, he must reconcile past inconsistencies and build reliability.
Should he stabilize, he might redeem perceptions of his earlier struggles. Regardless, his path—from walk-on collegiate hopeful to NFL kicker—is already compelling. His legacy may become one of determination, adaptability, and the narrow margins separating success from challenge in elite sport.
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