Kansas City Chiefs sign veteran kicker Justin Tucker to practice squad

The Kansas City Chiefs have bolstered their special teams unit by signing five-time All-Pro kicker Justin Tucker to the practice squad. The move brings a highly decorated veteran into the fold as the franchise looks to address recent inconsistencies in their kicking game.

Tucker, who will turn 37 next month, has been out of the NFL since 2024. His most recent season was sidelined by a 10-game suspension resulting from a violation of the league's personal conduct policy. These disciplinary measures followed allegations of sexual misconduct involving 16 massage therapists across several Baltimore-area wellness centers, incidents reported to have taken place between 2012 and 2016.

For the Chiefs, the addition of Tucker serves as a strategic insurance policy for current kicker Harrison Butker. A key contributor to Kansas City's three recent Super Bowl championship runs, Butker has endured a difficult campaign this year. The 10-year veteran has struggled with accuracy, converting only 11 of his 16 field goal attempts throughout the season. His recent form included two missed kicks during the team's loss to the Seattle Seahawks this past Sunday, highlighting the urgency for the organization to evaluate their options at the position.