Sports
Chiefs to Elevate Kicker Matthew Wright Amid Injury Issues
The Kansas City Chiefs are facing another change at the kicker position due to injuries. After primary kicker Harrison Butker was placed on injured reserve two weeks ago, the Chiefs signed kicker Spencer Shrader from the Jets’ practice squad. However, Shrader has now been ruled out for this week’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders due to a hamstring injury on his kicking leg.
To fill the void, the Chiefs will elevate kicker Matthew Wright from their practice squad. Wright, who signed with the Chiefs’ practice squad just two days ago, has a history with the team, having kicked in two games for Kansas City in 2022. This season, Wright has already appeared in one game for the San Francisco 49ers, converting three field goals and three extra points in a Week 6 win over the Seattle Seahawks.
Wright’s experience and recent performance make him a viable option for the Chiefs. If Shrader continues to miss time, the Chiefs can continue elevating Wright for up to two more games before he reaches his limit under a single practice squad contract. By that time, Harrison Butker is expected to be eligible to return from injured reserve, provided he is healthy enough to play.
In addition to Wright, the Chiefs will also elevate tight end Anthony Firkser from the practice squad. Firkser, a veteran tight end, will be appearing in his fifth game this season, having played in four games earlier in the year for the Jets.