Chiefs Stick with Kicker Butker Despite Recent Struggles

The Chiefs have decided to continue with their kicker, Harrison Butker.

Even though Butker has faced challenges lately, and there’s been some buzz around Kansas City signing Justin Tucker, special teams coordinator Dave Toub confirmed that they are committed to Butker, who is 31 years old.

“We’re focused on improving and getting Butker back on track,” Toub said when speaking to the media. “That’s the main goal here. He’s still our kicker. He made all ten attempts in practice yesterday, even with Tucker watching.”

Toub noted that it was windy—gusts of up to 28 miles an hour—which made it a tougher environment, but seemed optimistic about Butker’s potential. “We’re going to keep working on it,” he added.

Butker has had a rough start to the season, missing five of his 16 field goal attempts so far, including two in last Sunday’s disappointing 20-3 loss to the Seahawks.

Looking ahead, it’s expected that he will be in uniform for the upcoming Week 8 game against the Broncos, a game that could have major implications for the AFC West standings.

“My warmup wasn’t great,” Butker reflected after the game. “It’s challenging, but you have to adapt and try to correct things during the game. The 58-yarder I attempted was just short, and the 45-yarder at the end—I needed to make it but ended up pushing it wide right.”

He further explained, “I feel at my best when I’m in a smooth rhythm and not swinging too hard. I don’t think power has been a problem. If I miss, it’s likely because I’m trying too hard.”

Toub’s reassurance of Butker’s role comes just one day after the Chiefs brought Tucker onto their practice squad, following Tucker’s suspension from the NFL last season due to allegations of sexual misconduct.

Tucker, who is 36, had been let go by the Ravens after accusations of sexual harassment surfaced involving multiple massage therapists.

Coach Andy Reid, when asked about Tucker’s controversial history, stated, “I’m not here to discuss that. But I did my research before bringing him in.” He then reiterated, “He’s here now and on the practice squad, so we’ll move forward.”