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The Kansas City Chiefs have had some memorable players over the years, and while many of them are recognized for their impact on offense or defense, the role of the kicker is often overlooked. Kickers are crucial to a team’s success, especially in tight games. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the best kickers in Kansas City Chiefs history, ranked by football fans, including some of the most iconic names that have graced the special teams unit.
1. Jan Stenerud
It’s no surprise that Jan Stenerud tops this list. As one of the most legendary kickers in NFL history, Stenerud played with the Chiefs from 1967 to 1979 and helped revolutionize the role of the kicker in the NFL. Known for his powerful leg and consistency, Stenerud was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991. His legacy is still celebrated by fans today.
Notable Achievements
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991
- Super Bowl IV Champion
- Multiple Pro Bowls and All-Pro selections
- At the time, he set several NFL records for field goals made and attempts
2. Nick Lowery
Nick Lowery stands out as one of the most beloved Chiefs kickers in the franchise’s history. Lowery spent 13 seasons with the Chiefs, from 1980 to 1993, becoming the all-time leading scorer for the team at the time. His accuracy and clutch kicking were crucial in many of the Chiefs’ victories during the 1980s and early ’90s, especially during high-pressure moments.
Notable Achievements
- Chiefs’ all-time leading scorer at the time of retirement
- Two-time Pro Bowler
- Ranked among the NFL’s all-time top 10 kickers at the time of his retirement
3. Harrison Butker
Harrison Butker, often referred to as “Butkicker,” is a modern-day star for the Kansas City Chiefs. Since joining the team in 2017, Butker has been known for his powerful leg and reliability in high-pressure situations. He became famous for his game-winning kicks in important moments, including his clutch performance during the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LIV victory in 2020.
Notable Achievements
- Super Bowl LIV Champion
- Consistent accuracy, especially from long range
- Set franchise records for field goals made in a single season
- Multiple game-winning kicks in critical moments
4. Doug Brien
Doug Brien may not have had the longevity of some other Chiefs kickers, but his impact during his time with the team can’t be ignored. He had a solid stint with the Chiefs in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Brien’s performance was critical in maintaining the Chiefs’ special teams play at a high level during his tenure.
Notable Achievements
- Key contributor to Chiefs’ special teams during 1997-2000
- Showed excellent consistency and strength in his leg
5. Pete Stoyanovich
Known for his consistency, Pete Stoyanovich played for the Chiefs from 1991 to 1994. He was a reliable kicker, contributing greatly to the Chiefs’ success during the early ’90s. Stoyanovich helped solidify the special teams’ performance with his accuracy and leg strength, making him a fan favorite in Kansas City.
Notable Achievements
- Accurate kicker with a strong leg
- Helped the Chiefs win crucial games during his time with the team
- Had a successful career after his time with Kansas City, kicking for multiple teams
Honorable Mentions
While these five kickers stand out as the best in Kansas City Chiefs history, there are several others who also deserve recognition:
- Lawrence Tynes – Known for his time with the Chiefs and his clutch performances, especially in the postseason.
- Kevin Butler – Played a significant role as a reliable kicker in the mid-90s.
- Cairo Santos – A more recent addition, known for his solid kicking during the 2010s.
Fans’ Take on the Best Kickers
Fans often debate the top kickers in Chiefs history, with many focusing on clutch performances in key games. Stenerud, Lowery, and Butker often dominate discussions, with fans highlighting their ability to handle the pressure. Butker’s recent successes, especially his role in helping the Chiefs win the Super Bowl, have made him a fan favorite. However, Stenerud’s legacy as the first true kicker to make a mark in the NFL and Lowery’s consistency through several decades remain tough to top.
Conclusion
The Kansas City Chiefs’ history is rich with legendary players in every position, and the kickers are no exception. From Jan Stenerud’s Hall of Fame induction to Harrison Butker’s Super Bowl-winning kicks, these players have left a lasting impact on the franchise. Whether they were delivering clutch kicks in high-pressure games or providing consistency throughout their careers, these kickers helped make the Chiefs a force to be reckoned with. As we move into the future, the legacy of these kickers will continue to inspire both the team and its fans.
Fan Experiences with Kansas City Chiefs Kickers
Fans who have been following the Kansas City Chiefs for decades often have fond memories of the team’s kickers. For many, Jan Stenerud remains a towering figure in franchise history. His booming kicks were a source of pride for fans in the 1970s, and his induction into the Hall of Fame only solidified his legacy. Even those who didn’t grow up watching Stenerud still appreciate the foundation he laid for future Chiefs kickers.
Nick Lowery’s tenure in Kansas City was similarly significant. Long after his retirement, Chiefs fans still talk about his clutch field goals and his consistency over 13 seasons. Whether it was a 50-yard field goal or a chip shot in the final seconds of a close game, Lowery was a reliable force that fans knew they could count on. The cheers that rang through Arrowhead Stadium whenever he lined up for a kick became almost synonymous with the Chiefs’ success in the 1980s and early ’90s.
In recent years, Harrison Butker has earned his place in Chiefs history, particularly with his iconic kicks during Super Bowl LIV. Fans love his calm demeanor under pressure, and his ability to nail difficult kicks from long range has earned him the title of one of the most reliable kickers in the NFL today. For younger fans, Butker represents the modern success of the team, and his pivotal role in their most recent Super Bowl victory further cements his legacy as one of the best in franchise history.
The experiences and memories that fans associate with these kickers help shape the identity of the Kansas City Chiefs. Whether it’s Stenerud’s early dominance, Lowery’s consistency, or Butker’s big-game heroics, the Chiefs have had some fantastic kickers who have played a major role in the team’s success. As the franchise moves forward, fans will continue to remember these kickers with pride, knowing their contributions are etched in the team’s history forever.
