Chiefs Expected to Add Spencer Shrader as Harrison Butker Lands on Injured Reserve

AFC West contenders bolster practice squad as playoffs near

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Spencer Shrader is reportedly set to sign with the team after being released by the Buffalo Bills. Shrader, a former four-star recruit, spent the 2022 season on Buffalo's practice squad.

The move comes as the Chiefs continue to deal with injuries at the quarterback position. Starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a high ankle sprain in the Chiefs' Week 16 win over the Seattle Seahawks, and his status for the team's upcoming playoff game is uncertain.

Butker Placed on Injured Reserve

In addition to the Shrader signing, the Chiefs also placed kicker Harrison Butker on injured reserve with a left ankle injury. Butker has been dealing with the injury since Week 11 and has missed the Chiefs' last two games.

The Chiefs will likely turn to rookie kicker Matthew Wright to handle kicking duties in Butker's absence. Wright has made all four of his field goal attempts since joining the Chiefs in Week 15.

Chiefs Remain AFC West Contenders

Despite the injuries to Mahomes and Butker, the Chiefs remain in contention for the AFC West title. Kansas City is currently 14-3 and holds a one-game lead over the Los Angeles Chargers with two games remaining in the regular season.

The Chiefs will host the Denver Broncos in Week 18 before traveling to Las Vegas to face the Raiders in Week 19. A win in either game would clinch the AFC West title for Kansas City.