Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid announced Wednesday that kicker Harrison Butker will retain his starting position for the team's upcoming game against the New York Jets. This decision comes despite recent struggles and increased scrutiny on Butker's performance.
Butker missed a crucial field goal attempt in the Chiefs' recent loss to the Denver Broncos. This miss marked his sixth of the season and the 16th since the start of last season, the most in the NFL during that period. His current season statistics show he has made 12 of 18 attempts, placing him among the lower-ranked kickers in the league.
The pressure on Butker has been amplified by the recent addition of Justin Tucker to the Chiefs' practice squad. Tucker, a former Baltimore Ravens kicker, was suspended for 10 weeks for violating the league's personal conduct policy in connection with accusations of sexual misconduct, which he denies. Tucker's suspension was lifted in November 2025, and he had not appeared in the NFL since his release from Baltimore until joining the Chiefs' practice squad late last month.
Despite Butker's difficulties, Reid's confirmation indicates the team's continued faith in the three-time Super Bowl champion as they prepare to face the Jets at Arrowhead Stadium.