49ers release veteran kicker

In May, the 49ers signed Joseph as a contender for the 2025 kicking gig. The 31-year-old took part in minicamp and the opening stages of training camp, but his time in San Francisco has come to an end before the preseason. As a result of today’s move, Jake Moody is the lone kicker on the roster at the moment.

Moody entered the league in 2023 with high expectations as the No. 99 pick in his draft class. He enjoyed a strong rookie campaign, connecting on 21 of 24 field goal tries and all but one of his extra point attempts. Last season, however, things took an unwanted turn. In 14 games, Moody missed 10 field goal attempts, including five from within 50 yards. Competition was sought out in response, but pending another addition at the position he is set to once again handle kicking duties in 2025.

Joseph had a three-year run with the Vikings following brief tenures in Cleveland and Tennessee. Last season, the former UDFA made appearances for three teams; in all, he went 16-for-2o on field goals and 11-for-11 on extra points. As teams around the league prepare for the preseason in advance of final roster cuts, it will be interesting to see if Joseph lands another opportunity in the near future.

The 49ers’ other Monday moves consisted of signing defensive end Bradlee Anae, defensive tackle Bruce Hector, safety Jaylen Mahoney, cornerback Fabian Moreau and offensive lineman Isaiah Prince. They will each look to carve out a depth spot over the coming weeks while (in all likelihood) seeing playing time during the preseason as the team deals with minor injuries at number of positions.

In corresponding transactions, cornerback Tre Avery, receiver Isaiah Neyor, quarterback Tanner Mordecai and tight end Mason Pline have been waived. Each member of that quartet will be available to interested teams via the waiver wire. Provided they go unclaimed, each will become a free agent.