The Kansas City Chiefs have made some personnel changes to their kicking unit ahead of the Week 15 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Saturday the team will release Kicker Matthew Wright. This move comes as Harrison Butker, the Chiefs’ starting kicker, is expected to return from injury this week. Wright’s release marks the end of a brief but impactful stint with the Chiefs, one where he made critical contributions.
As for Butker, back in November he underwent successful surgery for a torn meniscus and was sidelined for four games. During his absence, the Chiefs had two kickers come in and kick, with the first being Matthew Wright who delivered whenever his number was called. His most memorable moment with the Chiefs was a game-winning field goal against the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite his success, the Chiefs have decided to move on and reinstate their trusted veteran kicker as they prepare for this week’s matchup against the Browns.
Matthew Wright’s Time In Kansas City
Matthew Wright, although only with the Chiefs for a few weeks, made the most of his time with the two-time defending champions. Proving that he is someone a team can rely on to deliver even under the most pressurized situations. In two games, Wright successfully converted eight of nine field goals and all extra points. His biggest moment in Kansas City came in Week 14, where his last-second, 31-yard field goal sealed a not only a 19-17 victory over the Chargers. It also allowed the Kansas City Chiefs to clinch their ninth consecutive AFC West division title.
For his performance, he earned the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors. It was the first of his career and a testimony to his ability to deliver in clutch moments. Despite this, his release became inevitable with Butker’s returning to the lineup. However, his efforts ensured Kansas City’s kicking game did not miss a beat and remained a strength during a season of frequent change.
Harrison Butker’s Return To the Chiefs
Harrison Butker’s returning to practice this week and being cleared to go for this Sunday, the Chiefs will back their starting kicker back into the fold. Before his injury, Butker was 18-of-20 field goals and 21-of-22 extra points. With a track record of both consistency and clutch performances, his experience is invaluable as Kansas City looks to secure the top seed in the conference and make another deep playoff run.
In Butker’s absence, the Chiefs went through two kickers this season, all of whom delivered game-winning moments. Something that is typically not the standard when teams have to rely on second and third-string kickers, but it goes to show the quality of coaching and execution the special teams unit has in Kansas City. Now with Butker back and healthy, the Chiefs moving forward will be relying on his steady leg for kicking duties.
Final Thoughts
The team’s decision to release Matthew Wright was a decision made because their starting kicker has returned. While Wright did deliver for them in crucial moments, Harrison Butker’s return provides Kansas City with a proven veteran who has delivered for them over the years, as they look to make history with a potential third straight Super Bowl championship.
As the Kansas City Chiefs look ahead to their Week 15 matchup, the return of Butker signals a renewed focus on experience and consistency. Wright’s heroics will not be forgotten, especially because his performances were vital in helping the Chiefs get where they are. However, with their starting kicker back, Kansas City remains as well-positioned as ever for the challenges ahead.
