The 49ers placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Gould in February with the hopes of negotiating a new long-term deal before the July 15 deadline to do so. The kicker reportedly grew tired of the 14 months of negotiations, frustrated by San Francisco's decision to pursue a replacement in New England Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski, and decided he would like to play elsewhere.
"The bottom line is, I'm unsure if I want to play there anymore," Gould told ESPN. "At this point, I have to do what's best for me and my family back home."
Gould, 36, has remained in the Chicago area as his teammates reported to phase one of the 49ers' offseason program last week.
The 49ers seemed confident the team would work out a deal with Gould, and general manager John Lynch insisted on Monday that the kicker would be suited up once the regular season kicks off. Those comments may not have sat well with Gould.
"Robbie's going to be a part of us this coming year," Lynch said. "I know that. We would like it to be longer than that, and we've made an attempt to make that happen. We haven't come to an agreement as of yet, and we'll see where that goes.
"Robbie will be a part of us this coming year, and we're excited for that because he's very good at what he does. And he's also a big part of this team."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Rapoport shares candid thoughts on Brock Purdy-49ers contract talks
Earlier this week, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport joined The Rich Eisen Show and offered candid insight into the contract negotiations between the San Francisco 49ers and quarterback Brock Purdy. The young signal-caller is expected to sign the largest deal in franchise... -
ESPN 7-round mock draft: 49ers bolster trenches early, add QB and kicker late
With the 2025 NFL Draft just days away, ESPN analyst Jordan Reid has released a full seven-round mock draft, projecting all 257 selections. While the San Francisco 49ers have numerous directions they could go, many expect the team to prioritize the trenches with their first of... -
Fowler: 49ers trade buzz has quieted
The San Francisco 49ers have frequently been mentioned in draft trade rumors, especially with speculation that they may target a top-tier offensive tackle in the first round. However, that chatter appears to be fading. "And while San Francisco (No. 11) has been linked to trade... -
Chris Simms: Nobody believes Brock Purdy is a top-10 QB, 49ers should consider a trade
When it comes to stirring up NFL fan bases, few duos do it better than Mike Florio and Chris Simms on Pro Football Talk Live. Over the years, they've drawn plenty of ire from San Francisco 49ers fans for their bold and often controversial takes. Their latest 49ers-related...