All About Jake Moody — Michigan Star to NFL Clutch Kicker
Jake Moody has become one of football’s most talked-about kickers — from his decorated college career at Michigan to his promising rise in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers. Known for his accuracy, composure, and powerful leg, Moody has shown that a great kicker can be as crucial as a quarterback when the game’s on the line.
This article dives into his journey, stats, playing style, and what makes Jake Moody such a special talent.
Early Life and Rise in Michigan
Born on November 23, 1999, in Novi, Michigan, Jake Moody grew up like many Midwestern kids — passionate about sports and competition. But while others dreamed of throwing touchdowns, Moody focused on kicking them.
He attended Northville High School, where his natural ability to boot the football caught local attention. His accuracy and range were far beyond his age level, and by his senior year, he was considered one of the top high-school kickers in the state.
That precision and dedication led him to the University of Michigan, where he would turn from a walk-on into a Wolverine legend.
College Career — Dominating the Big Ten
Jake Moody joined the Michigan Wolverines in 2018. Initially, he handled kickoff duties, but his work ethic quickly earned him the chance to be the team’s main placekicker.
His first standout performance came during the 2018 season against Indiana, where he went a perfect 6-for-6 on field goals — setting a single-game record for Michigan. It was a preview of what was to come.
Over the next few years, Moody developed into one of college football’s most consistent and reliable kickers. In 2021, he had a breakout year, converting 92% of his field goals and nearly all of his extra points. That same year, he won the Lou Groza Award, given annually to the nation’s best placekicker — becoming the first Michigan player ever to receive the honor.
By the end of his college career, Moody had made 69 field goals, scored more than 350 points, and helped lead Michigan to back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances. His name is etched in the school’s record books as one of the most dependable kickers in its storied history. All About Jake Moody
The NFL Draft — A Rare Kicker Pick
In the NFL, kickers rarely hear their names called early on draft day. But Jake Moody changed that narrative.
During the 2023 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers selected Moody in the third round (99th overall) — one of the highest draft selections for a kicker in nearly two decades. The move shocked some analysts but thrilled others who had followed his college dominance.
The 49ers needed a reliable long-term kicker, and Moody’s combination of leg strength, accuracy, and confidence under pressure made him the perfect fit. Team scouts highlighted his ability to handle both field goals and kickoffs — an important factor in special teams strategy.
Rookie Season — The NFL Adjustment
Entering the NFL as a rookie kicker isn’t easy. The uprights look smaller, the stakes are higher, and the pressure is relentless. But Jake Moody handled it like a pro.
In his first season with the 49ers, he hit several clutch field goals that proved pivotal in tight games. One of the highlights came when he nailed a 57-yard field goal — one of the longest ever by a 49ers rookie — showcasing his elite leg strength and calmness in big moments.
Of course, the season also came with growing pains. A few missed kicks early on led to some scrutiny, but Moody didn’t let it shake his confidence. Instead, he doubled down on his training and came back sharper, turning potential setbacks into valuable lessons.
By the end of the year, he had solidified his role as San Francisco’s go-to kicker and one of the most promising young specialists in the NFL.
Playing Style — Calm, Confident, and Clutch
What separates Jake Moody from the average kicker isn’t just his leg power — it’s his poise under pressure.
He has a smooth, technically sound kicking form that produces consistent ball flight. His follow-through is balanced, and his rhythm remains steady even in chaotic game situations.
Here’s what defines his playing style:
- Elite accuracy: Moody’s college and early NFL stats show he consistently hits over 85% of his field goals.
- Long-range power: Comfortable from beyond 50 yards, he gives his team scoring potential even outside the red zone.
- Kickoff control: He frequently forces touchbacks, pinning opponents deep and giving his defense an advantage.
- Mental toughness: He treats each kick like it’s routine, even in high-stakes playoff or primetime moments.
Coaches often describe him as “unflappable,” a trait that every NFL kicker needs but few truly possess.
Impact with the San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have been known for strong special teams, and Jake Moody fits perfectly into that culture. His presence has allowed head coach Kyle Shanahan to trust his kicker in long-distance and late-game situations, which opens up play-calling flexibility.
For a team that often plays tight defensive games, having a dependable kicker like Moody is a huge asset. His consistency also allows the offense to play with more confidence, knowing they can come away with points even when drives stall near midfield.
In short, Moody is more than just a kicker — he’s a scoring weapon who changes field position, momentum, and strategy
Mindset and Preparation
Behind every successful kicker is an unwavering mental game. Jake Moody’s calmness comes from rigorous preparation.
He’s known to practice visualization techniques before big games — imagining perfect kicks in various scenarios. He also studies film not just of his own kicks but of stadium conditions, opposing special teams formations, and snap timing.
This attention to detail has made him a trusted professional, even among veterans. His Michigan coaches often praised his focus, saying he treated every kick, no matter the distance, with the same seriousness.
That discipline carried seamlessly into his NFL career, where Moody’s reputation for calm execution continues to grow.
Challenges and Learning Moments
Every kicker experiences ups and downs — and Moody’s early NFL journey was no different.
In some games, he faced wind gusts, blocked attempts, or missed kicks that could’ve shaken his confidence. Instead, he took those experiences as growth opportunities.
Fans and analysts alike have noted how quickly Moody bounces back from adversity. Whether it’s a missed attempt in the first quarter or a high-pressure field goal in overtime, he remains composed and ready for the next opportunity.
That resilience is exactly what separates long-term NFL kickers from short-lived ones.
Off the Field — Character and Humility
Jake Moody isn’t just known for his right leg — he’s respected for his professionalism.
He’s low-profile, humble, and team-oriented. Rather than chase headlines, he focuses on consistency and improvement. Teammates describe him as “steady” and “cool under pressure,” both on and off the field.
Off the gridiron, Moody often participates in youth football clinics and community events, particularly in Michigan, where he continues to inspire young athletes who dream of playing college or professional sports.
He’s a reminder that success in the NFL isn’t just about talent — it’s about character, discipline, and persistence.
What’s Next for Jake Moody
As of 2025, Jake Moody is positioned to be one of the NFL’s next elite kickers. With a year of experience under his belt, improved chemistry with his holder and snapper, and growing confidence, the future looks incredibly bright.
He’s expected to play a major role in the 49ers’ playoff push, especially as games tighten late in the season. Long-term, Moody could easily develop into a multi-time Pro Bowler if he maintains his consistency and keeps improving his range.
Given his trajectory so far — and the trust his coaches have placed in him — it wouldn’t be surprising to see him emerge as one of the most reliable kickers of the decade.
Why Jake Moody Matters
In today’s NFL, special teams often decide games. A missed field goal can break a season; a clutch one can make history.
Jake Moody represents the new breed of NFL kicker — technically gifted, mentally sharp, and ice-cold under pressure. His rise from college walk-on to third-round draft pick is a story of belief, patience, and preparation paying off.
For 49ers fans and football enthusiasts alike, Moody’s career is one to watch closely. Every time he steps up to the ball, you can feel the confidence that comes from thousands of hours of practice — and the calm that only true professionals have.
Final Thoughts
Jake Moody’s story is still being written, but the opening chapters are already impressive. From record-setting performances at Michigan to making his mark in the NFL, he embodies what dedication and focus can achieve.
If he continues on his current path, he could easily go down as one of the most consistent and clutch kickers in modern football. The 49ers found more than a special teams player in Moody — they found a game-changer.
For now, every 49ers game is another opportunity for Jake Moody to add to his growing legend — one kick at a time.
Keywords
Jake Moody, Jake Moody Michigan, Jake Moody 49ers, Jake Moody stats, Jake Moody NFL Draft, Jake Moody Lou Groza Award, Jake Moody
