Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce may not be having the standout season many fans are used to. Though he’s on track to surpass 90 receptions and 800 receiving yards, he’s averaging fewer than 10 yards per catch for the first time in his career. In Sunday’s victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, Kelce posted his season-best numbers with 10 catches for 90 yards and a touchdown.
Yet this season, he’s only managed two games where he averaged more than 10 yards per catch, raising concerns that this trend might continue.
An anonymous NFL executive recently shared insight with Jeff Howe of The Athletic, suggesting that Kelce’s decline in explosive plays might be tied to his age and the impact of running back Isiah Pacheco’s absence.
Known for his physicality and burst, Pacheco brought a dynamic element to the Chiefs’ offense that Kelce, at this stage of his career, may struggle to replicate. “The Pacheco injury is the biggest factor that not many people talk about,” the executive explained. “They obviously miss the play, but also the physicality and spark he brings to the offense. Kelce is getting older. It’s noticeable on tape that he’s losing some (yards after the catch).”
Despite these challenges, the Chiefs are enjoying their best start since Patrick Mahomes became quarterback, a testament to their adaptability.
Their offensive balance has become more apparent this season, with Mahomes leading the league in interceptions yet backed by a defense that ranks fifth in the league.
The Chiefs’ ability to maintain a strong record despite Mahomes’ and Kelce’s challenges showcases the team’s depth and adaptability.
However, if Kelce’s production continues to dip, the Chiefs may eventually face a difficult decision.
As one of Mahomes’ most trusted targets, Kelce’s decline in yardage and lack of explosive plays could place greater pressure on the Chiefs’ receiving corps and force head coach Andy Reid and the Chiefs’ management to reassess his role on the team.
For now, the Chiefs remain contenders, but questions loom about how much longer they can rely on Kelce to perform at an elite level, and whether Mahomes, Reid, and the Chiefs’ front office will need to confront his future with the team if production continues to decline.
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