Kansas City Chiefs’ unblemished season faced yet another setback with an injury to one of their key players, Harrison Butker. After welcoming back RB Kareem Hunt from suspension, news came that kicker Harrison Butker will miss games due to an injury suffered to his left knee that required surgery on its meniscus; henceforth placing Butker on injured reserve and sidelining him for at least four weeks.
Due to Butker’s injury, the Chiefs have signed Spencer Shrader from New York Jets practice squad as his replacement. Questions over his cause have led to much discussion; former NFL punter Drew Butler suggested via social media that Butker’s different kicking technique, landing every kick this season on his left knee instead of landing it backwards may have contributed to needing meniscus surgery as an explanation for this sudden change.
With the trade deadline having passed, the Chiefs were limited in their options for a replacement. Shrader, a rookie who has spent time with both the Colts and the Jets, and even played one game for the Colts, now finds an opportunity with the Chiefs. This gives the team a chance to maintain their performance level despite losing Butker, who had amassed 75 points in 9 games in the 2024 season.
Other Chiefs Injuries and Returns
Though Butker suffered setback, the Chiefs have experienced good news on the injury front. Wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster returned to practice following being sidelined since week 7 due to a recurring hamstring injury; setting him up for possible return against Buffalo Bills during week 11. Additionally, Mecole Hardman who has been dealing with shoulder and toe injuries resumed practicing and increased chances of playing against Bills during week 11.
The Kansas City Chiefs have taken great care during this challenging stretch, as important players like DeAndre Hopkins remain vulnerable due to an MCL partial tear. But their offense continues to stay powerful while fans keep hope alive of an undefeated season and potentially historic accomplishments. While losing Butker will certainly be felt heavily upon, adaptability will play a pivotal role as they attempt to remain undefeated this year; Spencer Shrader provides them with another kicker option as they chase record breaking aspirations.