NFL Announces Surprising Resurgence of Previous Champion Player at Age 39
Veteran punter Thomas Morstead signs with San Francisco 49ers
In a move to bolster their special teams unit, the San Francisco 49ers have signed Thomas Morstead, a Super Bowl champion and 16-year NFL veteran. Morstead, 39, was most recently with the New York Jets, but became a free agent after not being retained by the team.
The 49ers had an opening on their roster when former Jets head coach Robert Saleh, who was hired as the 49ers' new defensive coordinator in October 2023, expressed interest in bringing Morstead on board. The punter himself shared his excitement about the move, posting a selfie outside Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, along with a grateful caption.
Morstead's NFL career began with the New Orleans Saints, with whom he spent 12 seasons, winning the Super Bowl in his rookie year in 2009. After a stint with the Jets in 2021, he played for the Atlanta Falcons, Miami Dolphins, and returned to the Jets before being released in May 2025.
Up until his departure from the Jets, Morstead posted impressive stats, averaging 48.2 yards per punt in 34 games over the past two seasons and placing 55 punts inside the 20-yard line. Nevertheless, the team decided to part ways with him during a roster overhaul.
The 49ers' decision to sign Morstead reflects their search for veteran stability and reliability. With Morstead on board, the 49ers can rely on his extensive NFL experience and consistent punting performance. Hoping to improve their special teams unit, the 49ers have brought in a seasoned punter who is adept at managing game situations effectively, a crucial asset for postseason aspirations.
After reaching the NFC Championship game in 2022 and the Super Bowl two seasons ago, the 49ers missed out on the postseason in 2024, finishing with a 6-11 record. With the addition of Morstead, the 49ers aim to regain their momentum and make a strong run for the playoffs in the upcoming season.
Thomas Morstead's NFL career continues as he joins the San Francisco 49ers, a move that showcases the team's focus on American football, specifically football and the NFL. His extensive experience in the league, coupled with his impressive punting stats, will undoubtedly contribute to the 49ers' sports efforts and perhaps, improve their chances in sports news, particularly the upcoming season.
