In a move that surprised few, the 49ers released struggling kicker David Akers on Wednesday.
After setting an NFL record for most field goals made (44) and most points by a kicker (166) in 2011, Akers’ career took a nosedive in his second year in San Francisco. The 14-year pro connected on just 69.0 percent of his field goals in 2012, ranking him 30th among NFL kickers. Strangely enough, Akers began his season by nailing a 63-yarder in Green Bay that tied a league record.
“The 49ers would like to thank David for his service, dedication and leadership over the past two years,” Niners general manager Trent Baalke said in a press release. “He is a true professional who represented himself and this organization with class. We wish him, and his family, all the best.”
Akers has been named to six Pro Bowls and ranks third among active kickers with 367 field goals made. The 38-year-old was was set to make $3 million in 2013 if he had been left on the San Francisco roster.
