The San Francisco 49ers have sent shockwaves through the NFL community with their unexpected decision to release veteran punter Mitch Wishnowsky after six seasons with the team. The move, announced on May 29, 2025, marks the end of an era for the Australian-born player who became a fan favorite for his reliability and contributions to the 49ers’ special teams unit. This decision comes as part of a broader roster overhaul following a disappointing 6-11 season in 2024, leaving fans and analysts questioning the team’s direction heading into the 2025 season.
A Stalwart in the Bay Area
Mitch Wishnowsky, a fourth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, brought a unique flair to the 49ers with his rugby-style punting and powerful leg. Over his six seasons in San Francisco, Wishnowsky appeared in 94 regular-season games, averaging 45.7 yards per punt with a net average of 41.2 yards. His ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory was a key asset for the 49ers, who relied on their strong defense and field position battles during their successful runs to the Super Bowl in 2019 and 2023. Wishnowsky’s consistency earned him respect in the locker room and among fans, making his release all the more surprising.
The 49ers’ special teams unit, under coordinator Brian Schneider, leaned heavily on Wishnowsky’s precision. His 68.4% punt placement inside the 20-yard line in the 2023 season ranked among the league’s best, and his durability was unquestioned, missing only one game in his career due to a minor injury. Beyond his on-field contributions, Wishnowsky’s journey from Australian rules football to the NFL resonated with the Bay Area’s diverse fanbase, adding to his legacy with the team.
Why the Release?
The decision to part ways with Wishnowsky appears to be part of a strategic shift by general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan as they look to reshape the roster. According to reports, the 49ers signed veteran punter Thomas Morstead to a one-year deal on the same day Wishnowsky was released, signaling a desire for a new voice in the special teams room. Morstead, a 17-year NFL veteran, brings a wealth of experience, having previously played for the New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, and Atlanta Falcons. His signing suggests the 49ers are prioritizing veteran leadership to stabilize a unit that struggled in 2024.
The 49ers’ 2024 season was marred by injuries and underperformance, culminating in a last-place finish in the NFC West. Key departures in free agency, including Deebo Samuel, Javon Hargrave, Charvarius Ward, and Talanoa Hufanga, have forced the team to make tough decisions to manage their salary cap and rebuild for the future. Wishnowsky’s release frees up approximately $3.4 million in cap space, per Spotrac estimates, providing flexibility as the team eyes additional free-agent signings or draft pick investments in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
Fan Reaction and What’s Next
The news of Wishnowsky’s departure sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with fans expressing both gratitude and disbelief. “Mitch was a warrior for us. Can’t believe they let him go after all those clutch punts,” one fan posted on X. Another wrote, “This feels like the end of an era. Wishnowsky was a glue guy for the Niners.” The sentiment reflects the emotional weight of losing a player who contributed to two Super Bowl appearances during his tenure.
For Wishnowsky, the early release gives him a head start in free agency, allowing the 30-year-old to explore opportunities with other teams before the new league year begins. Given his track record, he is likely to attract interest from teams seeking a reliable punter with playoff experience. Analysts speculate that teams like the Chicago Bears or Miami Dolphins, who struggled with punting consistency in 2024, could be potential landing spots.
Meanwhile, the 49ers are moving forward with Morstead as their new punter, alongside a revamped roster that includes recent extensions for quarterback Brock Purdy and linebacker Fred Warner. The team’s focus appears to be on balancing youth and experience, with an emphasis on improving their defensive front and offensive line in the offseason. However, the loss of Wishnowsky raises questions about whether the 49ers can maintain their edge in special teams, a unit that has been a cornerstone of their success under Shanahan.
A New Chapter for the 49ers
As the 49ers prepare for the 2025 season, the release of Mitch Wishnowsky underscores the ruthless nature of the NFL, where even dependable brownstone players can become casualties of roster turnover. While the move may be financially prudent and strategically motivated, it leaves a void in the hearts of 49ers fans who cherished Wishnowsky’s contributions over six seasons. As San Francisco looks to rebound from a challenging 2024, the team’s leadership is betting on new faces like Morstead to help restore their championship pedigree.
The 49ers’ journey back to contention will be closely watched, but for now, the Bay Area bids farewell to a player who helped define an era of 49ers football. Mitch Wishnowsky’s legacy will live on, even as the team turns the page toward a new chapter.