3 underrated 49ers players vital for success in 2023

The 49ers have their fair share of stars, but Super Bowl success often comes off the back of more unheralded players. These three Niners may not have the plaudits, but they're vital for potential Super Bowl success this season.

The San Francisco 49ers enter the season as one of the favorites to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. A relatively weak conference, in addition to what is considered widely to be a Super Bowl-caliber squad, has put the Niners in a good position to push for their sixth Lombardi trophy.

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While it's always good to have stars pushing the team towards glory, often Super Bowl success depends on the unsung heroes who don't often get the attention they deserve. Whether it's because of the position they play or they didn't have the best career up to that point, there's usually someone unexpected that steps up.

So with that in mind, here are unheralded 49ers players who'll be vital to success, starting with a rookie.

49ers Player No. 1: Jake Moody, Kicker

Jake Moody has a big crosshair on his back not seen by a lot of rookie kickers, which can be summed up three different ways.

Firstly, he's going to be entrusted with a big responsibility on a team ready to win right now. He's not going to have time to acclimate to the NFL.

Secondly, he's replacing one of the best kickers the Niners ever had in Robbie Gould. The 49ers have generally gone the veteran route at the position in recent memory, so a rookie kicker is pretty notable.

Finally, Moody is one of the rare kickers who were drafted on Day 2, which most people would consider an unnecessary reach.

Of course, Moody could very well kick (pun intended) these criticisms to the curb if he takes to the NFL immediately, and the team is going to be counting on him to do so.

A clutch field goal could be the difference between so many wins and losses for the team and could be so important come playoffs.

While not a lot would think Moody is top of the list to be one of the most important players on a Super Bowl run, the truth is he's certainly the most essential rookie in San Francisco with the duties he's been entrusted with.