The National Football League has witnessed the emergence of a new highest-paid kicker in the form of Harrison Butker, who recently inked a lucrative four-year, $25.6 million contract extension with the Kansas City Chiefs. Reports indicate that this deal includes a hefty $17.75 million guaranteed, propelling Butker past established kickers like the Baltimore Ravens’ Justin Tucker and the Philadelphia Eagles’ Jake Elliott, who were previously tied as the top earners at the position with their own four-year, $24 million contracts.
Despite his prowess on the field, the seven-year veteran found himself embroiled in controversy back in May when he delivered a commencement speech at Benedictine College. In his address, Butker made remarks that sparked significant backlash, particularly when he suggested that most women graduating would prioritize marriage and starting a family over pursuing their careers. He also voiced disapproval of what he termed “dangerous gender ideologies” and took a swipe at Pride Month.
Despite facing criticism from various quarters, Butker has stood by his beliefs, refusing to backtrack on his statements. Interestingly, some of his Chiefs teammates, notably stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, have publicly stated their disagreement with Butker’s views while also expressing their support for him.
“I can’t say I agree with the majority of it, or just about any of it, outside of him loving his family and his kids,” Kelce remarked during an appearance on the “New Heights” podcast. “I don’t think that I should judge him by his views, especially his religious views, of how to go about life. That’s not just who I am.”
The situation surrounding Butker not only highlights the complexities of balancing personal beliefs with public perception in the modern sports landscape but also sheds light on the internal dynamics within the Chiefs locker room. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, it remains to be seen how Butker’s comments will impact his relationships with his peers and his performance on the field.
