The San Francisco 49ers - with their collection of star players on premium contracts - believe they are still in a Super Bowl window.
Although last season's 6-11 record contradicts that point, Niners fans will chalk up the season to injuries hampering any momentum built after their Super Bowl berth two seasons ago.
Many of the San Francisco players who appeared in that Super Bowl LVIII loss to the Kansas City Chiefs are still on the roster. But you'll be hard pressed to find as many players who have actually won the big game sometime in their career.
San Francisco's latest addition changes that with the signing of veteran punter Thomas Morstead.
Morstead, 39, is entering his 17th season in the NFL. Although he is on the downward trajectory of his career (on his fifth team in five years), he will forever be remembered for his iconic part in Super Bowl lore.
The punter spent his first 12 seasons with the New Orleans Saints and in his 2009 rookie season appeared in Super Bowl XLIV. Morstead's memorable on-side kick to open the second half played an integral part in the Saints defeating the Indianapolis Colts, quickly cementing his place among legendary Saints moments.
Morstead put together a solid career in New Orleans that includes a Pro Bowl and All-Pro selection. Despite being on another new team entering 2025, Morstead is excited for the opportunity to move to the Bay Area.
Morstead's age has not proven much of a factor in his performance. Last season with the New York Jets, he held an impressive 47.2 yards per punt average. Two seasons ago, he set career highs in punts (99) and yards (4,831).
Football is a game built on leadership and experience. San Francisco is hoping the addition of Morstead to the locker room will provide both in their quest to reach a Super Bowl in 2025.