Santa Clara, CA — In a move that has caught fans off guard and ignited waves of online debate, the San Francisco 49ers have announced the signing of veteran punter Thomas Morstead, while simultaneously releasing long-time special teams anchor Mitch Wishnowsky. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the media today, calling the move “a complicated decision” that was not taken lightly.
A Shock to the Locker Room
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Wishnowsky, who was drafted by the 49ers in the 4th round of the 2019 NFL Draft, has been a reliable and consistent presence for the team’s special teams unit for five seasons. With a booming leg and the ability to pin teams deep inside the 20, many believed he was a long-term fixture in the 49ers’ roster.
Which is why today’s news sent shockwaves across the fanbase.
“Mitch has been nothing but class. He’s done everything we’ve asked of him,” Shanahan said in a press conference at Levi’s Stadium. “But at this stage, we had to look at every angle, and bringing in Thomas was the right move—even though it was painful.”
Why Thomas Morstead?
Mitch Wishnowsky
At 38, Thomas Morstead is one of the most experienced punters in NFL history. A Super Bowl champion with the New Orleans Saints, Morstead is known for his elite placement, leadership, and clutch playoff performances.
Insiders say the 49ers were particularly impressed with Morstead’s veteran poise and strategic punting in high-pressure games, something they feel will be invaluable during a potential deep playoff run.
“We’re not rebuilding, we’re trying to win a Super Bowl right now,” a team executive shared anonymously. “Morstead gives us a mental edge in the postseason.”
The Human Side of the Decision
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In a surprisingly emotional moment, Shanahan admitted the decision was not just about numbers or performance charts.
“You don’t just cut someone like Mitch without a lot of thought. There were sleepless nights, team conversations, even talks with the captains. But sometimes the hardest decisions are the right ones for the team’s future.”
Players have already taken to social media to show love for their former teammate:
George Kittle: “Mitch is family. One of the hardest-working dudes I’ve ever met. Respect always.”
Fred Warner: “Tough business. Love you bro. You’ll land strong.”
Fan Reactions: Mixed and Emotional
The 49ers’ faithful are split down the middle. Some praise the decision as bold and strategic. Others are lamenting what they see as a betrayal of loyalty.
“Wishnowsky was a warrior! We’re not going to find chemistry overnight with Morstead,” one fan tweeted.
“Shanahan’s building a Super Bowl team. You gotta make moves like this. It’s business,” countered another.
The move is trending on X (formerly Twitter) under hashtags #WishnowskyCut, #MorsteadTo49ers, and #ShanahanDecision.
What Happens Next?
Wishnowsky is now an unrestricted free agent, and multiple teams are already rumored to be inquiring. Analysts believe the Green Bay Packers and Indianapolis Colts may be potential landing spots.
Meanwhile, Morstead will step into a high-expectation environment in San Francisco, where one mishit punt could become a media firestorm.
“I’m here to win and contribute in any way possible,” Morstead said in his first interview. “But I know I’ve got big shoes to fill. Mitch earned every ounce of respect from this locker room.”
Final Thoughts
While punters rarely make headlines, today’s move proves how every roster spot matters—especially when a team has Super Bowl dreams.