49ers sign K Billy Cundiff, waive Eric Bakhtiari [Updated]

Fooch's Update: The 49ers have made it official, releasing LB Eric Bakhtiari and signing K Billy Cundiff.

Adam Schefter and the 49ers beat writers are all reporting that the San Francisco 49ers have signed kicker Billy Cundiff. The 49ers have not issued a press release, and there are no reports yet on the corresponding roster move to make room for Cundiff. The 49ers currently have the full contingent of 53 players, so they would need to make a move to make room for Cundiff.

One option would be to cut David Akers, but the more likely option in my mind is the team sends Tony Jerod-Eddie back to the practice squad. A team could claim him in the meantime, but that would be a bit of a surprise. Another move would be releasing Eric Bakhtiari once again. I would imagine the TJE move is more likely if Will Tukuafu will be ready for next week, but we'll see.

The 49ers worked out Cundiff in November, and then again today, along with former Panthers kicker Justin Medlock. For those wondering, Cundiff is a career 12 of 14 on field goals in the postseason. Of course, his last field goal attempt was a miss in the AFC Championship Game, with an opportunity to send the Baltimore Ravens to the Super Bowl. He was also 7-of-12 this year with the Redskins before being released. I imagine Jim Harbaugh had at least a brief conversation with his brother John.

Any kicker addition at this time in the season is not going to be particularly inspiring, but maybe Cundiff has his head on straight and is mentally prepared. Right now, even after a decent second half this past Sunday, one has to imagine David Akers is not 100% mentally checked in at this oh so important time.