Chiefs activate Harrison Butker from IR, release Matthew Wright ahead of Sunday's game

Alex Parker

u/alex

Kansas City Chiefs activate Harrison Butker from injured reserve and release Matthew Wright.

Why it matters: The return of kicker Harrison Butker provides a boost to the Chiefs' special teams as they head into a crucial game against the Cleveland Browns.

  • Butker had been sidelined since November due to left knee surgery, and his presence on the field brings stability and reliability to the kicking game.

What's new: In addition to activating Butker, the Chiefs have made other roster moves, including the downgrade of left tackle D.J. Humphries to out due to a hamstring injury.

  • Linebacker Swayze Bozeman and tight end Anthony Firkser have been activated from the practice squad, providing depth in their respective positions.

Yes, but: It's worth noting that during Butker's absence, both Spencer Shrader and Matthew Wright filled in admirably as kickers for the Chiefs.

  • Wright even earned the NFL's special teams player of the week title for his game-winning field goal against the Los Angeles Chargers.

What to watch: With the activation of Riley Patterson from the practice squad, the Cleveland Browns indicate a potential change at the kicker position after Dustin Hopkins struggled in Week 14.

  • This development could have an impact on the Browns' special teams performance and their ability to make crucial field goals.

What's next: As the Chiefs prepare to face the Browns, they will rely on Butker's strong leg and accuracy to provide them with valuable points in what is expected to be a closely contested matchup.

  • The team will also look to their newly activated players, Bozeman and Firkser, to contribute and make an impact on the field.

The bottom line: The return of Harrison Butker adds stability and reliability to the Chiefs' kicking game, bolstering their special teams unit as they aim for success in the upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns.