Andy Reid releases the kicker who secured the Chiefs' most recent win and was named Special Teams Player of the Week, leaving fans shocked

The Kansas City Chiefs continue their impressive season, currently holding a 12-1 record and eyeing the top seed in the AFC. Under the leadership of coach Andy Reid, the team has managed to secure victories through both dominant performances and nail-biting finishes.

A pivotal contributor to their success has been kicker Harrison Butker, celebrated for his clutch game-winning field goals. However, Butker's recent absence due to a meniscus injury has left the Chiefs in a challenging spot, though his return to action is now on the horizon.

Despite Butker's uncertain status in recent weeks, Matthew Wright stepped in and performed admirably as the team's temporary kicker. Wright's efforts earned him recognition as the NFL Special Teams Player of the Week after his game-winning field goal against the Los Angeles Chargers.

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Yet, in a surprising turn of events, Wright found himself released by the Chiefs just days after receiving the accolade. NFL insider Adam Schultz reported, "Chiefs are releasing kicker Matthew Wright today, per source. Harrison Butker now is expected to kick Sunday vs. the Browns."

Reid Confident in Harrison Butker's comeback

This decision paves the way for Butker to reclaim his position ahead of the Chiefs' high-stakes matchup against the Cleveland Browns. While this move signals confidence in Butker's recovery, it also raises questions about his readiness after missing four games. Coach Andy Reid commented on Butker's status, stating, "We're going to see how he does here. He'll get a few snaps [in practice]." Reid has yet to confirm whether Butker will be fully prepared for Sunday's game, leaving room for speculation.

Wright's release highlights the often unforgiving nature of professional sports. Despite stepping up in a critical moment for the Chiefs, his departure serves as a stark reminder of the NFL's cutthroat environment. As Reid evaluates his options leading up to game day, Wright's future remains uncertain. For now, his performance as a "kicker for hire" has kept the Chiefs afloat during Butker's absence, but his next opportunity in the league is yet to be determined.

The Chiefs' decision underscores the reality that in the NFL, players are often judged by their most recent performance. As Wright moves forward, his brief but impactful stint with Kansas City will undoubtedly remain a testament to his resilience and skill under pressure.