Harrison Butker to IR with knee injury
The Chiefs are placing kicker Harrison Butker on injured reserve due to a knee injury, which, according to reports, will keep him off the field for at least four games. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shared that Butker will have surgery to trim his meniscus, aiming for a return later in the regular season, likely in time for the playoffs.
Butker, who joined his teammates on the field as practice started Thursday, will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, as Schefter reported.
With the move to IR, Butker must sit out a minimum of four games.
The Chiefs have picked up kicker Spencer Shrader from the Jets’ practice squad to step in for Butker on the 53-man roster, according to Schefter.
An undrafted rookie from Notre Dame, Shrader successfully hit all three of his extra-point attempts in Week 1 with the Colts before being waived. He then joined the Jets’ practice squad on Oct. 30 and was temporarily activated for their recent 31-6 loss to the Cardinals, where he made two field goals.
Butker, who ranks third in league history with an 89.21% field goal conversion rate, has successfully kicked 18 of 20 field goals this season, missing only two attempts from beyond 50 yards.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero noted that Butker will likely be sidelined for up to four weeks. Going on IR confirms a required absence of four weeks.
The timing of Butker’s injury is uncertain. He hit all three field goal attempts in Kansas City’s Week 10 win over the Broncos.
Butker’s season has been marked by efficiency, though it seems his precise technique may have contributed to his injury. Former NFL punter Drew Butler pointed out Butker’s tendency to put pressure on his left knee during kicks, which could explain the injury.
Rapoport also reported that Butker’s surgery to repair his meniscus is expected in the next few days.
With IR designation, Butker could return by Week 15 when the Chiefs face the Browns.
Read More: Vikings rookie QB J.J. McCarthy undergoes second knee surgery amid torn meniscus rehab
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