The San Francisco 49ers were hit by the injury bug again when kicker Eddy Piñeiro went down during the team’s 41-22 win over the Arizona Cardinals. He strained his right hamstring. That immediately sparked questions about whether the Niner’s could consider kicker Justin Tucker. On Monday morning, head coach Kyle Shanahan was asked exactly that during his interview.

“No. We haven’t talked about that,” he told 49ers Webzone when asked about the possibility of bringing in Tucker for a workout.

When further probed by the reporter, Shanahan added, “I have no idea. I haven’t talked about one kicker with them, so not sure about anyone. I know they’re putting together a group of guys to possibly bring in Tuesday or Wednesday.”

It is not surprising that the former Baltimore Ravens kicker has gained traction among teams and the media. He posted a 73.3% field-goal percentage last season. During his 13-year stint with the Ravens, he has made a name for himself as one of the best kickers.

He has recorded an 89.1% field-goal percentage throughout his career and once kicked the longest field goal at 66 yards. Tucker also has a Super Bowl championship to his name. The 7x Pro Bowler is one of the most accurate kickers and has the potential to lift the 49ers. However, there’s an issue.

Tucker missed 10 games this season due to his suspension for an alleged violation of the league’s Personal Conduct Policy. The kicker has expressed his interest in joining any team this season, but he hasn’t reportedly visited any yet. And coach Shanahan’s comments hint that the team has yet to discuss anything regarding Tucker.

That means, whether they pursue Tucker or not, the 49ers are exploring their options. Although Shanahan didn’t share any names, the team is expected to invite players for a workout soon. And several names have surfaced in the conversation.

One such name is kicker John Parker Romo. He was waived by the Atlanta Falcons earlier this month and will reportedly attend the tryouts. Another name is placekicker Matt Gay, who the Washington Commanders released. The Commanders signed Jake Moody from the Chicago Bears’ practice squad, as per reporter Tom Pelissero.

Now, Moody was waived by the 49ers to bring in Piñeiro this season. He could have been a good option for the 49ers, considering his experience with the team. However, the option to bring in Moody is no longer available. It will be difficult for coach Shanahan to find someone who can replace Piñeiro.

49ers’ dreams dwindle with Eddy Piñeiro’s injury

The kicker seemed to have an excellent year in field-goal attempts, converting all 22 of them. After Moody’s turbulent stint, the 49ers hoped for Piñeiro to help elevate the team in the league.

And he did it. Piñeiro opened his season by setting a franchise record for consecutive makes (17).

“He’s been awesome so far,” Shanahan said about the player. “Pumped that we’ve been able to get him.”

Top Stories

Cowboys Fire Defensive Coordinator Matt Eberflus: Contract, Salary, NFL Earnings & More

Russell Wilson Announces Retirement Stance as Giants QB Shares Hidden Injury News

Dolphins Reportedly Indecisive About Mike McDaniel as GM Search Kicks Off

Joe Flacco Makes Retirement Decision Clear as Bengals QB’s Final Gesture for Ja’Marr Chase Draws Attention

Brian Schottenheimer Calls Out Controversial Jaxson Dart Incident as Cowboys Star Awaits NFL Punishment

However, in the third quarter of the Week 11 game, he injured his hamstring and left the field. While he didn’t return, punter Thomas Morstead took over his duties. Later, it was revealed that Piñeiro had sustained a Grade 1 hamstring strain.

The worst news came when the coach revealed that Piñeiro will now be considered week-to-week. And this isn’t the only injury blow. Linebacker Tatum Bethune sustained a high ankle sprain during the same game. While he is not placed on the injury reserve, he is reported to miss a few weeks.

Injuries have continued to rock the 49ers since the preseason. As they deal with that, they must find the right piece for the team to rise in the NFC West.