Chiefs Dealt Big Blow As Harrison Butker Undergoes Surgery

The Kansas City Chiefs have suffered a big blow as veteran kicker Harrison Butker heads to injured reserve due to a knee injury that requires surgery. 

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Butker will undergo a procedure to trim the meniscus in his left knee, a move that will sideline him for at least four weeks. 

"That’s why he’s headed to IR, though he'll be back for the home stretch and playoffs," Rapoport shared on X. 

The timing of the injury is tough for Kansas City, as Butker has been a reliable scoring asset all season, hitting 90% of his field goals (18-of-20) and 96% of his extra points.

Sources: #Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker is expected to miss 3-4 weeks and is likely headed to injured reserve with a left knee injury.

Kansas City will have a new kicker Sunday at Buffalo. pic.twitter.com/Qm7JEHDsfW

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 14, 2024

In response, the Chiefs signed rookie kicker Spencer Shrader off the New York Jets' practice squad. 

Shrader, an undrafted kicker out of Notre Dame, recently made his NFL debut with the Jets, where he converted all his attempts, including two field goals and two extra points. 

While safety Justin Reid has served as an emergency kicker in the past, the Chiefs opted for a specialist given the anticipated length of Butker’s absence. 

Shrader will step into a high-pressure role as Kansas City prepares for a crucial stretch of the season, including a high-stakes matchup against the 8-2 Buffalo Bills.

Harrison Butker has collapsed on his left knee following through EVERY kick this season.

It is a change in his technique that really caught my attention, and unfortunately it’s not surprising his left knee needs a meniscus procedure.

Hope he gets healthy. https://t.co/DsSVrKmFuz pic.twitter.com/1szLcRzQea

— Drew Butler (@DrewButler) November 14, 2024

Butker’s extended absence places added pressure on head coach Andy Reid’s squad as they navigate a tough AFC schedule with their sights on the playoffs. 

Butker is expected to return in Week 15 for the Chiefs' matchup against the Cleveland Browns. In the meantime, the Chiefs are hopeful that Shrader can step up and help maintain the team’s undefeated streak as they aim to stay on top in a highly competitive conference.

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images