Chiefs HC Andy Reid Addresses Harrison Butker Decision

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Chiefs HC Andy Reid Addresses Harrison Butker Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Nov 2, 2026 5:33 AM ET

Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs had the opportunity to extend their lead late in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos on Sunday. Leading 24-21 with 2:31 remaining, Reid sent Harrison Butker out for a 54-yard field-goal attempt on fourth down. The kick sailed wide right, giving Denver possession near midfield.

Denver ultimately completed its comeback, outscoring Kansas City 15-0 in the fourth quarter. The Broncos secured the 28-24 win, marking their fourth straight victory.

Reid addressed his decision to turn to Butker during a crucial juncture in the game. The veteran coach stressed that he didn’t think the distance was beyond Butker’s comfort zone.

“Those are hindsight,” Reid said. “I mean, it ended up being what it was. It’s within Harrison’s range.”

Chiefs HC Andy Reid on sending out Harrison Butker to attempt a 54 yard field goal on 4th and 8 from the Denver 36 yard line in the rain leading 24-21 with 2:36 left in the game. #ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/zzHl16sXOK
— Rob Collins (@RobCollinsTV) November 2, 2026

Butker has had a difficult start to the season. Sunday’s missed field goal was his sixth of the season across seven games. This adds uncertainty to his status as the Chiefs’ starting kicker, especially after the team signed veteran kicker Justin Tucker to the practice squad.

The Chiefs started the season 5-0 but have since lost back-to-back games. They dropped to second place in the AFC West, as the 6-2 Broncos took the top spot.

Patrick Mahomes did his best to guide the team to victory. He completed 30 of 41 passes for 321 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions.

Meanwhile, Kenneth Walker III rushed 21 times for 69 yards, while Emmett Johnson caught five passes for 128 yards. The rookie running back led Kansas City in receiving yards. Travis Kelce registered five receptions for 67 yards.

Kansas City will look to snap its two-game losing streak when it hosts the New York Jets on Nov. 8. Kickoff from Arrowhead Stadium is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET on CBS, before the Chiefs begin a stretch of four road games in five weeks.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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