49ers Add Morstead, Former Jets to Special Teams

The San Francisco 49ers have signed veteran punter Thomas Morstead, 39, to compete with incumbent Mitch Wishnowsky for the starting job after a season marked by injuries and special teams struggles. Morstead, who led the NFL in total punts last season, reunites with new 49ers special teams coordinator Brant Boyer, his former coach with the New York Jets. The move is part of a broader overhaul that includes acquiring other former Jets specialists, kicker Greg Joseph and long snapper Jon Weeks. Wishnowsky, the 49ers' punter since 2019, is coming off an injury-plagued 2024 season with career-low averages. While Morstead's experience and strong leg offer immediate help, the additions are viewed as short-term solutions. The competition underscores the 49ers' efforts to address last year's special teams weaknesses.