The Kansas City Chiefs are in the midst of an unexpected kicking crisis as both of their kickers have been sidelined with injuries. Starting kicker Spencer Shrader, who had been performing well in his first season with the team, suffered a hamstring injury that kept him out of the Chiefs’ Black Friday win over the Las Vegas Raiders. His absence prompted the team to bring in Matthew Wright, who was signed to the practice squad and quickly elevated to the active roster. Wright stepped in admirably, converting 4-of-5 field goals against the Raiders.
However, the situation has only worsened for Kansas City. On Wednesday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Shrader’s 2024 season has ended abruptly, as the kicker was placed on injured reserve. This is a significant blow for a team that was already missing Pro Bowl kicker Harrison Butker, who was placed on injured reserve earlier this month due to a knee injury requiring arthroscopic surgery.
A Tough Situation for Kansas City
For head coach Andy Reid and the Chiefs, this is the last thing they needed. With Butker’s recovery still ongoing, the team’s kicking duties now rest entirely on Wright’s shoulders for the foreseeable future. The loss of two kickers in one season is less than ideal, but Wright’s performance in his Chiefs debut against the Raiders showed that he’s more than capable of stepping up in a pinch.
Despite the offense’s struggles in the red zone against Las Vegas, Wright’s four successful field goals proved to be crucial in the win. The Chiefs will need more of the same from Wright as they prepare for a primetime matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers this Sunday night.
Wright’s Role Against the Chargers
With the Chiefs’ offense facing one of the league’s top defenses — the Chargers have allowed only 15.2 points per game, the best in the NFL — Wright could be called upon frequently in a low-scoring contest. Kansas City’s offense will look to find its rhythm, but if they can’t convert in the red zone once again, Wright’s leg will become an even more important weapon.
For now, Wright will be the go-to kicker for the Chiefs, and his performance could have a major impact on the team’s playoff hopes as the regular season winds down. The Chiefs will be hoping for a quick recovery for both Shrader and Butker, but for now, it’s Wright’s turn to shine in a high-pressure situation.
