When Julian Love blocked Jake Moody‘s 36-yard attempt during the San Francisco 49ers‘ 17-13 win against the Seahawks, the camera cut to Kyle Shanahan, who could be seen throwing his hands in frustration. And while he blamed it on the “whole operation,” instead of just Moody, and declared that there was “no question” he would be the kicker in week 2, on Monday, during a conference call with reporters, Shanahan sang a different song.

His words suggested Moody’s roster position is under close examination. “There are options, whether it’s to stay status quo, we could bring in guys for workouts, practice squad … I know the personnel department is going to look into all that stuff and give us those options,” Shanahan said. He also added that it’s something that’s being considered in the building. After all, the timing of Moody’s slip-ups could have cost the 49ers the game on any other day.

His first half field goal attempt saw the ball bounce off the goal post when the score stood at 7-7. Meanwhile, Love’s block came in the third quarter when the Seahawks were leading 10-7. And although redemption came with his third attempt on goal, which leveled the score, the misses were a reminder of his campaign last year.

Moody became a liability in 2024, making only 24 of 34 and missing 10 kicks total. At longer range, percentages were not as impressive: 10 of 20 from 40 or more yards, including 6 of 11 from 40–49 yards and a dismal 4 of 9 from at least 50 yards. A 2023 third-round draft pick, Moody tried to restart physically and mentally this offseason. He abandoned his three-step approach in favor of a two-step kickoff, a strategy employed by other successful NFL kickers, and spoke of worrying less about mistakes of the past and of this moment. However, the changes are yet to put an end to the doubts.

Jake Moody divides Kyle Shanahan’s locker room

If Shanahan is walking a tight rope in public, tension within the 49ers’ locker room is even greater. Fox’s Pam Oliver reported, “That missed kick is really causing some frustration on the 49ers sideline. I saw two thrown helmets and a lot of ticked-off looking players.” Emotions boiled over upon Moody’s blocked kick, the kind of public display that doesn’t usually spill over from San Francisco’s normally stoic sideline.

The players’ frustration is not new. Moody’s inconsistent 2024 season depleted his reliability. His misery only accelerated from there, as he made just 2 of 6 attempts over the final three games and also missed an extra point. To a roster built to win, those mistakes opened up old wounds that still haven’t healed today.

Kyle Juszczyk, who was among those who hung their heads after the missed goal attempt, stated, “He’s got the leg. He’s got it in him. We’re just hopeful that he pulls through in those pressure moments.” But he made this statement after a 5-second pause, which doesn’t really scream confidence. Fred Warner, too, didn’t exactly cut his teammate slack. He said, “I don’t know if I have anything to comment on that, to be honest.” “Everybody’s got to do their job. That’s it,” he added, while he also acknowledged the protection issues that contributed to the kicker’s woes.

Edge rusher Nick Bosa, however, sounded more sympathetic. “I’m always supportive of a guy who’s struggling,” Bosa told reporters after the game. “Obviously, that position is very cut and dry, whether you’re getting it done or not. I’ll never turn on a teammate.”

For now, the franchise will continue to sit on the fence of hope and doubt. Shanahan’s defense-built roster gives them latitude for error, but tolerance is wearing thin. Every kick Moody attempts will have more and more weight.