NFL
Who will replace Harrison Butker as the Chiefs' kicker?
With their top kicker sidelined, Kansas City turns to fresh talent, but could it see a downturn in results?
The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a significant change in their special teams lineup. Kicker Harrison Butker is off to injured reserve due to a left knee issue, specifically a torn meniscus that requires surgery. This development leaves the Chiefs in need of a reliable replacement.
What are Shrader’s kicking stats?
To fill the void, the Chiefs have signed rookie kicker Spencer Shrader from the New York Jets' practice squad. Shrader, 25, had a notable college career at South Florida and Notre Dame. He went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft but was picked up by the Indianapolis Colts as a free agent.
During his brief tenure with the Colts, Shrader made all three of his extra point attempts. He later joined the Jets, where he successfully converted both of his field goal attempts.
When it comes to touchback making, Shrader has shown on all eight of his kickoffs – Colts five, Jets three – that he is more than up to the job.
Butker has remained a key part of the Chiefs‘ points scoring and has made 18 of 20 field goals and 21 of 22 extra points this season. Inide 50 yards he hasn’t yet missed and has twice kicked over that.
How long is Butker out for the Chiefs?
Butker’s injury is a setback for the Chiefs, especially considering his recent four-year, $25.6 million contract extension, which made him the highest-paid kicker in NFL history. With $17.75 million guaranteed, the deal, if the 2026 get out clause isn’t activated, is set to keep him in Kansas City through the 2028 season.
As for how long he’ll be out, that’s not clear. Being on IR rules him out for at least four games, but recovery from the procedure to deal with the torn meniscus varies so it could be some time.
Next up for the Chiefs is a trip to Buffalo on Sunday to face the Bills, when all eyes will be on Shrader to see how he handles the pressure of stepping into Butker’s role. Kansas are 9-0 and want to keep the momentum going as they chase the threepeat.
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