Overview
- Reid announced Wednesday that Butker will remain the Chiefs’ starter for the Week 10 road game in Atlanta and that the team will reassess the position weekly.
- Butker has struggled through a prolonged slump, leading the NFL with seven missed field goals in 2026 and 17 missed kicks since the start of 2025, and was booed by the Arrowhead crowd after two misses in Week 9.
- Kansas City signed Justin Tucker to the practice squad after a reported flawless workout, and Tucker can be elevated quickly or signed by another club, though he has not played since 2024 and served a 10-game suspension in 2025 related to misconduct allegations he denies.
- Coaches including Reid and special teams coordinator Dave Toub have defended Butker by citing his long track record, three Super Bowl wins and franchise kicking records while saying the staff is working to correct his mechanics and timing.
- The immediate stake is clear: another poor outing in Week 10 could force a change that would affect late-game decisions and playoff margin, and Tucker’s presence gives the Chiefs a ready replacement if they choose to move on.