The San Francisco 49ers have an imminent decision about Robbie Gould and his future with the franchise. By December 31, 49ers must decide whether they want to receive half of the $ 4.5 million of Gould’s base salary. The 38-year-old took 31 direct shots from within 50 yards before Saturday’s fight against Arizona.
Gould missed the 41 and 37 yard field goals, as well as an extra point. The Cardinals had a chance to tie the game on the final drive due to Gould missing the three shots. Gould had lost an extra point and two field goals, entering the game, both coming from attempts that were over 50 yards.
Kyle Shanahan talked about Gould after Saturday’s victory:
“You have to look at the body of work with Robbie, and Robbie has been amazing since he’s been here for us. He had an incredible year this year. Yes, it was difficult in those situations, and Robbie will be harder on himself than anyone, but no. He played too much football in his career and played too much football so that we could let a game decide who he is. “
This does not sound like a coach who will let a poor performance in a meaningless game hinder a decision. Historically, Gould is one of the three most accurate kickers in the NFL. I doubt that this game was enough to change the minds of 49ers decision makers.
With that in mind, your age and salary are an important factor. If the 49ers choose Gould’s $ 2.25 million option next week, he will be in the squad for at least one more season. Are you paying an extra two million for Gould? I would rather lean because of the stability. We saw how a bad kicker can turn the tide. The argument would be that a substitute kicker would hypothetically give him a similar performance, in which he loses a few shots a season for about $ 3 million cheaper.
These are all decisions that San Francisco must take into account. Saving a few million here and there can be the difference in signing a big name free agent or bringing back one of your 40 unrestricted free agents. Based on Shanahan’s comments, Gould will be back in the Bay Area next season.