Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has had a slow start to the 2024 season, with only seven targets and four catches for 39 yards. This is a stark contrast to his usual performance, especially after coming off a ninth Pro Bowl season. Kelce was injured in the first game of the 2023 season, which may be affecting his performance this year. Despite these struggles, Kelce, who is approaching his 35th birthday, still has time to turn things around.
ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith raised concerns about Kelce’s performance, comparing it to singer Taylor Swift’s appearance at quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ birthday party. Smith emphasized that Kelce needs to step up and improve his performance, especially since he only has 39 receiving yards in the first two games of the season. The expectations are high for Kelce, and he will need to deliver in order to help the Chiefs succeed.
The limited targeting of Kelce in the first two games could be part of the team’s game plan, with other tight ends like Noah Gray and Jared Wiley also receiving targets. Additionally, the team has utilized Isiah Pacheco and Xavier Worthy as complements to receiver Rashee Rice. Despite the focus on Kelce by opposing teams, Chiefs coach Andy Reid remains confident that Kelce will have opportunities to make plays and contribute to the offense.
As injuries plague the Chiefs, especially with Pacheco going down, there is a greater need for tight ends to step up and support quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Kelce’s experience and skill set make him a valuable asset to the team, and his ability to create scoring opportunities will be crucial for the Chiefs’ success this season. With the support of his teammates and coaching staff, Kelce has the potential to overcome his slow start and make a significant impact on the field.
In conclusion, Travis Kelce’s performance in the early part of the 2024 season has been below expectations, but there are factors such as injuries and defensive focus that may have contributed to this. Kelce will need to step up and improve his performance in order to help the Chiefs succeed. With the support of his teammates and coaching staff, Kelce has the potential to turn things around and make a significant impact on the field. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how Kelce responds to the challenges he faces and whether he can regain his Pro Bowl form.
