The Kansas City Chiefs are facing questions about their kicking game as they head into the postseason. Head coach Andy Reid remains confident in Harrison Butker, despite the kicker’s struggles since returning from a knee injury. When asked about Butker’s performance, Reid responded with reassurance: “No, he’s working through that, and he’ll be fine. He’s just a hard worker. That’s what he does. And he’s a perfectionist on everything, and so he’ll just keep cranking. And I think he’s getting better. I think he’s getting better every day as he goes through this.”
Butker, who underwent cleanup surgery for a meniscus injury earlier in the season, has yet to regain his usual consistency. Since returning from injured reserve four weeks ago, he has missed two field goals and one long extra point attempt.
Most recently, he missed a 51-yard field goal attempt in Week 18 against the Denver Broncos, which was the Chiefs’ only scoring opportunity in that game. Special teams coordinator Dave Toub had previously suggested that Butker would need time to fully recover and find his rhythm, and Reid’s remarks seem to echo that sentiment.
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Historically, Butker has been a reliable asset for Kansas City, especially in high-pressure situations. Over seven postseasons, he has racked up 158 career postseason points, converting 62-of-65 PAT attempts and 32-of-36 field goals.
Can he bounce back in the Playoffs?
However, this season has been one of the least consistent of his career. His field goal percentage (84%) and extra point percentage (93.5%) are both the second-lowest marks he’s posted since entering the league. Additionally, his longest successful field goal this season is 53 yards, tying his rookie year for the shortest maximum distance of his career.
The Chiefs have proven they can win games without relying solely on Butker. This season, three different kickers delivered game-winning field goals while Butker was injured. However, with Spencer Shrader still on injured reserve due to a calf injury and Matthew Wright currently a free agent, Butker remains their best option-assuming he can return to form.
Despite his recent struggles, Reid’s confidence in his kicker remains steadfast: “He’s a perfectionist on everything.” The Chiefs will likely continue to monitor his performance in practice, hoping his improvement translates to the field as they prepare for the playoffs.