Chiefs Stick with Harrison Butker as Kicker Despite Justin Tucker's Practice Squad Addition

The Kansas City Chiefs are standing by Harrison Butker as their primary kicker, despite his recent on-field difficulties and the signing of Justin Tucker to the practice squad. Special teams coordinator Dave Toub conveyed this decision to reporters on Thursday, emphasizing the team's focus on getting Butker back on track.

"We're trying to improve and get Butker right," Toub explained. "That's what this whole thing is about. He's our kicker. He went 10-for-10 yesterday with Tucker standing right there. It was a windy day. It was 28 miles an hour gusts yesterday. That's a good thing. We're going to keep working it."

Butker's 2023 campaign has been rocky; he has converted only 11 of 16 field goal attempts, including a 2-of-6 mark from 50 yards or more. In last Sunday's 20-3 road loss to the Seattle Seahawks, he missed attempts from 45 and 58 yards.

Despite these struggles, Butker has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs' success, having kicked for five AFC championship teams and three Super Bowl winners. Over his career, he has made 87.3 percent of his field goals and 37 of 59 from beyond 50 yards. This season, however, his performance has dipped, prompting the team to bring in Tucker as insurance.

Tucker, once considered the NFL's premier kicker, earned five First Team All-Pro selections during his 13-year stint with the Baltimore Ravens from 2012 to 2024. Nevertheless, he experienced a decline in his final season, making a career-low 73.3 percent of his field goals (22 of 30).

The Chiefs, off to a 5-1 start and currently leading the AFC West, are sticking with Butker as they prepare for a crucial Week 8 matchup against the Denver Broncos, who ride a three-game winning streak into the contest. The winner will take sole possession of first place in the division. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday in Denver.

Key Analysis

The Chiefs' decision to retain Butker as their kicker, despite his struggles and the addition of Tucker, underscores their belief in his proven track record and their commitment to his development. While Tucker's presence provides a safety net, the team's immediate focus is on helping Butker regain his form, especially with a pivotal divisional game looming.

Originally reported by bleacherreport.