Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker is setting the record straight on his injury and the controversial kicking technique that had critics raising eyebrows.

As the Chiefs gear up for the AFC Championship, Butker is opening up about his recovery, the struggles he faced post-surgery, and why his unique form is here to stay-despite what the doubters say.

Back in November 2024, Butker’s kicking mechanics were put under a microscope after former NFL punter Drew Butler called him out, suggesting his technique was the reason for his left knee injury.

The kicker eventually underwent arthroscopic surgery for a meniscus issue, landing on injured reserve. Now, he’s back, and he’s got a message for the skeptics.

Harrison defends his style

“I didn’t have pain in the knee from kicking with that form,” Butker clarified. “Some people have said that form caused it, but I started using it for the entire 2023 season, and that was my best season.”

Indeed, he was nearly automatic that year, going 33-of-35 on field goals (94.3%) and a perfect 38-for-38 on extra points. But then came 2024, and things weren’t quite the same. His accuracy dipped to 84% on field goals and 92 total points-a noticeable drop-off.

While critics were quick to blame his unorthodox kicking motion, the Chiefs’ star insists the injury was more about wear and tear than mechanics. In fact, he revealed that at least two other NFL kickers have dealt with similar issues, proving just how much torque the plant leg endures.

Butker’s difficult road back

Post-surgery, Butker faced a tough road back. At first, he wasn’t sure he’d even be able to maintain his signature technique. “When I first started practicing after the surgery, I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to do that,” he admitted. Without full knee flexibility, he tried reverting to his old pre-injury form.

But once the real pressure hit? Muscle memory took over. “I was immediately falling down again,” he revealed. And while that might sound concerning, for Butker, it’s just part of what makes his technique work under high-pressure situations.

With the AFC Championship looming, Butker is ready to prove his doubters wrong once again. One thing’s for sure-his kicking style may be unconventional, but if it gets results, the Chiefs aren’t complaining.