The San Francisco 49ers endured a disappointing 6-11 season, with one glaring weakness consistently plaguing their efforts: special teams. Under the leadership of special teams coordinator Brian Schneider, the unit faltered repeatedly, ultimately contributing to one of the most underwhelming campaigns in franchise history.
Leadership Change Sparks Hope
On Monday, head coach Kyle Shanahan announced the dismissal of Brian Schneider, marking the first major coaching move following the team’s turbulent season. Schneider, who served as the 49ers’ special teams coordinator for three seasons, was relieved of his duties after the unit’s persistent shortcomings became too significant to overlook.
This decision comes as the organization looks to address critical weaknesses and restore its competitive edge. Shanahan originally hired Schneider to replace Richard Hightower, but the results fell far short of expectations.
Special Teams Woes
The special teams unit struggled in all facets throughout the season. Placekicker Jake Moody had an inconsistent year, missing 10 field goal attempts following a three-game absence due to a high ankle sprain. Punter Mitch Wishnowsky was sidelined for the final nine games with a back injury, leaving the 49ers vulnerable in the punting game.
Coverage issues were another glaring problem. At one point, both Moody and backup kicker Matthew Wright were forced into tackling roles during returns, highlighting the unit’s lack of discipline and preparation.
The season-ending game against Arizona was emblematic of these issues. Moody missed a 47-yard field goal attempt, and a fake punt by the Cardinals resulted in a 22-yard gain and ultimately led to a field goal.
A Season-Long Pattern of Mistakes
The special teams’ struggles were not isolated to a single game. Leading up to their midseason bye week, the 49ers committed significant errors in six consecutive contests. These included:
- A blocked punt.
- Missed field goals and extra points.
- A 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
- Fumbled kick returns.
- Poor onside kick execution.
This litany of mistakes underscored a lack of cohesion and execution within the special teams unit.
Statistical Setbacks
The numbers paint a stark picture of the 49ers’ struggles on special teams. The team averaged just 9.2 yards per punt return while allowing opponents 13.7 yards per return. Similarly, their kickoff return average of 28.5 yards was nearly negated by the 28.6 yards per return they allowed.
Rookie Jacob Cowing, tasked with handling punt returns, managed a modest average of 8.8 yards, further highlighting the inefficiency in this area.
Defensive Coordinator’s Status Unclear
While the special teams unit faced significant scrutiny, questions remain about the future of defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen. The 49ers’ defense collapsed repeatedly during a 2-6 finish, leaving Shanahan and general manager John Lynch with more tough decisions to make.
Looking Ahead
The 49ers’ leadership has vowed to address the team’s shortcomings, starting with the special teams overhaul. Shanahan and Lynch are expected to meet with the media later this week to discuss their plans for the offseason and outline steps to ensure a stronger, more competitive squad in 2025.
As the team begins its search for a new special teams coordinator, fans can only hope that this move marks the beginning of a turnaround for the storied franchise. The 49ers’ ability to bounce back will depend on learning from this season’s mistakes and building a cohesive, disciplined unit in all phases of the game.
