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49ers Opt for Experience, Sign 39-Year-Old Pro Bowl Punter Pat O’Donnell While Releasing Longtime St

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Strategic Roster Moves Aim to Boost Special Teams

The San Francisco 49ers announced key roster changes on Wednesday, parting ways with six-year starting punter Mitch Wishnowsky while signing veteran Pat O’Donnell, a 39-year-old two-time Pro Bowl specialist. This decision underscores the team’s focus on reliability and leadership as they work to recover from a 6–11 season and strengthen their special teams unit.

The Departure of Mitch Wishnowsky

Selected in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Wishnowsky, 29, had been a consistent contributor for the 49ers. However, his performance dipped significantly in recent years, reaching a career-low 44.1-yard average in 2023. A back injury in 2024 further limited his effectiveness, causing him to miss eight games. Releasing him saves the team $1.95 million in cap space, per Spotrac, while opening doors for him to rebuild his value in Free Agency.

49ers Opt for Experience,Sign 39-Year-Old Pro Bowl Punter Pat O’Donnell While Releasing Longtime Starter Mitch Wishnowsky

Pat O’Donnell Brings Proven Experience

With 13 NFL seasons under his belt, O’Donnell—a 2020 Pro Bowl selection with the Chicago Bears—joins the 49ers as a steady replacement. In 2024, he ranked fourth in the league with a 48.2-yard net average while playing for the New York Jets. His signing addresses a critical need for consistency in punting, especially under new defensive coordinator Robert Saleh’s rebuilding efforts.

“Pat’s longevity speaks for itself,” said head coach Kyle Shanahan. “He’s a technician who understands field position better than anyone. We’re excited to have his leadership in the locker room and his precision on the field.”

Broader Team Strategies

This move aligns with the 49ers’ offseason focus on veteran additions, such as signing Linebackers De’Vondre Campbell and Leonard Floyd to bolster a defense ranked 22nd in yards allowed last season. With a projected $18.1 million in cap space, the team aims to balance youth and experience to contend for a playoff return in 2025.

Future Outlook

While Wishnowsky’s departure marks the end of an era in San Francisco, the 49ers hope O’Donnell’s veteran presence will elevate a special teams unit that ranked 26th in the NFL in 2024. The team’s emphasis on proven talent reflects a calculated effort to stabilize its roster amid rebuilding challenges.

Keywords: San Francisco 49ers, Pat O’Donnell, Mitch Wishnowsky