Chiefs coach talks up Harrison Butker’s windy practice prowess with Justin Tucker hovering over him
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Chiefs coach talks up Harrison Butker’s windy practice prowess with Justin Tucker hovering over him appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker delivered a perfect practice performance despite facing difficult conditions and new competition. The impressive response came after Kansas City signed veteran Justin Tucker to its practice squad following Butker’s recent struggles.
Special teams coordinator Dave Toub said Butker made all 10 kicks during Wednesday’s practice, despite wind gusts reaching 28 mph. Tucker watched nearby as the veteran kicker responded to mounting pressure.
“He went 10-for-10 yesterday with Tucker standing right there,” Toub said, according to ESPN’s report.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
Toub emphasized that Butker remains Kansas City’s preferred kicker despite the decision to add competition.
“We’re trying to improve and get Butker right,” Toub said. “That’s what this whole thing is about. He’s our kicker.”
Butker has converted just 11 of 16 field goal attempts this season. His struggles included two misses during Sunday’s 20-3 defeat against the Seattle Seahawks.
The veteran missed attempts from 58 and 45 yards, contributing to Kansas City’s disappointing offensive performance against Seattle.
Meanwhile, Tucker impressed during his workout with Kansas City, converting all 30 attempts. His performance included seven kicks beyond 50 yards and one from 60.
Toub also revealed that both kickers have exchanged advice about technique and handling difficult situations. Their conversations could help Butker regain his consistency.
Kansas City faces the Denver Broncos on Sunday in a crucial AFC West matchup. Butker is expected to retain his starting role.
However, Tucker’s presence gives the Chiefs another option should their longtime kicker continue struggling.
For now, Butker’s flawless performance under windy conditions provides encouraging evidence that he can respond to the competition.
Related: Chiefs’ Eric Bieniemy gives heartwarming update on wife after shooting during training camp
Related: The Chiefs beat the brakes off the Broncos in Week 1. How can Denver flip the script?
Source: sports.yahoo.com — article syndicated from the publisher’s feed; all rights remain with the original publisher.