Chiefs Keep Harrison Butker as Starter, Sign Justin Tucker as Insurance After Perfect Tryout

CBS Sports · 2026-10-29
Chiefs Keep Harrison Butker as Starter, Sign Justin Tucker as Insurance After Perfect Tryout

The Kansas City Chiefs are standing by kicker Harrison Butker despite recent struggles, while veteran Justin Tucker waits in the wings after a perfect tryout with the team. Butker has been a reliable leg for Kansas City, but a dip in performance has raised questions. Tucker, a future Hall of Famer and longtime Baltimore Raven, impressed during his workout, but the Chiefs view him primarily as insurance and a resource rather than an immediate replacement. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, having a proven kicker like Tucker available provides valuable depth and a potential safety net if Butker's issues persist. The move signals that Kansas City is not panicking, but is prepared. As the season progresses, Butker's performance will be closely watched, with Tucker ready to step in if needed.