Spencer Shrader: The New Kicker for the Kansas City Chiefs After Harrison Butker’s Injury

In a significant development for the Kansas City Chiefs, the team has signed kicker Spencer Shrader as a temporary replacement for the injured Harrison Butker. Butker, who has been a crucial component of the Chiefs’ success, suffered a serious left knee injury during the team’s 30-20 win against the Denver Broncos last week. As a result, he has been placed on injured reserve and is expected to miss at least the next four games against the Bills, Panthers, Raiders, and Chargers[1][3][4].

Spencer Shrader, a 25-year-old rookie, was picked up by the Chiefs after a brief stint with the New York Jets‘ practice squad. Shrader had previously played for the Indianapolis Colts, joining them in April 2024 on a three-year deal worth $2,850,000. However, he was released by the Colts after playing just one game, as starter Matt Gay recovered from his injury[1].

Shrader’s collegiate career includes time at the University of South Florida (USF) and the University of Notre Dame. At USF, he was the primary placekicker and kickoff specialist, notable for his 2021 season where he scored 66 points in 11 games with 11 out of 12 field goal attempts and 33 out of 33 extra point attempts. In his final collegiate season at Notre Dame, Shrader participated in all 13 games, connecting on 15 field goals and finishing 61-for-62 on extra points, setting a new school record with a 54-yard field goal[1][3].

Prior to joining the Chiefs, Shrader made his NFL debut with the Jets, contributing all of the team’s points in a game against the Arizona Cardinals by connecting on both of his field-goal attempts, including one from 45 yards out. The Jets had planned to sign him to their 53-man roster, but the Chiefs moved quickly to secure him with a one-year contract worth $795,000, with a base salary of $353,336 for the 2024 season[1].

With Shrader on board, the Chiefs are looking to maintain their undefeated streak, starting with their upcoming game against the Buffalo Bills. This move is seen as crucial given the importance of Butker’s role in the team’s success, and fans are eagerly watching to see how Shrader will perform in this critical period[4].