Jake Moody, the standout NFL kicker known for his consistent performance, has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. In 2025, his salary reflects both his skill level and the evolving NFL salary landscape. This article dives deep into Jake Moody’s salary in 2025 while comparing similar roles, industry averages, and the factors that shape professional earnings across different sectors.
Jake Moody’s 2025 Salary Overview
Jake Moody is currently a kicker for the San Francisco 49ers, having been drafted in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. In 2025, he is in the third year of his rookie contract.
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Base Salary (2025): $1.14 million (approximate)
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Signing Bonus (prorated): $0.31 million
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Total Cap Hit: ~$1.45 million
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Contract Details: 4 years, $5.45 million total with a $0.99 million signing bonus
Jake’s take-home pay will be significantly impacted by federal and state taxes (California has one of the highest state income tax rates), agent fees, union dues, and potential performance-based bonuses.
Average NFL Kicker Salary in 2025
To put Jake Moody’s salary into perspective:
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Average NFL Kicker Salary: $2.5 – $4 million annually
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Top Earners (e.g., Justin Tucker): $5 – $6 million+
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Rookie Kicker Salaries: $750K – $1.5 million (based on draft position)
Jake’s earnings are typical for a young, early-career kicker with strong performance potential.
Salary Factors That Influence Earnings
Several key elements affect player and non-player salaries alike, whether in the NFL or broader job markets:
1. Experience and Performance
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More experience often leads to higher pay.
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Consistency, awards, and game-winning performances can trigger bonus clauses and contract extensions.
2. Position Demand
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Kickers are less frequently rotated, meaning fewer high-paying openings compared to quarterbacks or wide receivers.
3. Location
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California-based athletes, like Jake Moody, face high tax burdens, reducing their take-home pay significantly.
Comparing to Other Professions (2025 Salaries)
For perspective, let’s compare Jake Moody’s salary to some trending professions in 2025:
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Peloton Instructor Salary: $80K – $150K (depending on popularity and endorsements)
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Referee Salary (NFL): $205K – $260K
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SaaS Penetration Testers: $110K – $160K
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Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano): ~$130K – $150K
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Average U.S. Salary: $59K – $65K
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Take-Home Pay on $103K Salary: ~$73K–$78K after taxes (varies by state and deductions)
Jake’s earnings place him well above national averages, even when accounting for tax deductions.
Job Market Trends and Future Outlook
The job market for NFL kickers is both niche and highly competitive. Here are some key trends:
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High Competition: Only 32 starting kicker roles in the league.
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Special Teams Focus: Greater emphasis on field goal accuracy is increasing the value of reliable kickers.
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Performance-Based Extensions: Players like Moody can significantly boost their income with consistent performance.
Benefits of the Position
Jake Moody, like other NFL players, enjoys a range of benefits:
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Health and retirement plans through the NFLPA
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Performance bonuses
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Exposure for brand deals and endorsements
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Travel, training, and personal development support
Education and Certification Impact
While NFL kickers are evaluated primarily on performance, some background aspects still play a role:
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College Background: Jake played for the University of Michigan, a top-tier program that boosted his draft value.
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Training and Coaching: Private kicking coaches and specialized training programs often play a vital role in development.
For those in other industries like IT, fitness, or navigation logistics (e.g., Peloton instructors, SaaS engineers), certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CPT (Certified Personal Trainer), or PMP (Project Management Professional) can significantly increase salary potential.
Final Thoughts
Jake Moody’s 2025 salary of around $1.45 million is a testament to his growing value in the NFL. While it’s lower than league superstars, it’s an excellent wage for a third-year kicker on a rookie contract. His future earnings will likely increase with continued accuracy and clutch performances. Comparing his income with other professions highlights just how varied earnings can be based on industry, education, and skill level.