League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Chiefs award special teams MVP to punter Matt Araiza at midseason

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 13, 2026, 8:15 PM

Last updated Nov 13, 2026

Chiefs award special teams MVP to punter Matt Araiza at midseason

Summary

The Kansas City Chiefs have recognized punter Matt Araiza as their special teams MVP for the 2026 season at the midseason mark. Araiza, who has punted 25 times for 1,270 yards, averaging 50.8 yards per punt, has been instrumental in the team’s special teams performances. His most notable game was in Week 4 against the Las Vegas Raiders, where all five of his punts landed inside the 20-yard line. The Chiefs' special teams have faced challenges, including a struggling kicker and penalties, making Araiza's contributions stand out as the first half of the season concludes. The Chiefs have nine games left in the regular season.

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By the Numbers

•Matt Araiza has an average of 50.8 yards per punt this season.
•Araiza's longest punt of the season is 69 yards.
•Araiza's performance includes five punts inside the 20-yard line against the Raiders.
•The Chiefs have faced special teams challenges and penalties this season.
•Araiza garnered eight votes for special teams MVP among the writing staff.

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