The Kansas City Chiefs have kicked off the 2024 NFL season with an impressive 3-0 record. While the team’s overall performance has been stellar, one storyline worth noting is the conspicuously quiet start for their star tight end, Travis Kelce.
Defensive Focus on Kelce
Through the first three games, Kelce has managed just eight receptions for 69 yards. This mark is notable as it represents the fewest receptions and receiving yards in any three-game stretch of Kelce's illustrious career. The league's defenses seem to have zeroed in on him, and the Chiefs are acutely aware of this heightened focus.
Patrick Mahomes, the team’s standout quarterback, acknowledged the situation. "It's crazy because teams still -- the respect factor they have for Travis is just unreal. It's well-deserved. We're calling a lot of plays for Travis and it's like two or three people are going to him," Mahomes said. Despite the extra attention, Mahomes remains committed to getting the ball to his primary target whenever possible. "I'm gonna try to do my best to keep feeding him the ball whenever he's there, whenever he's open," he added.
Opportunities for Other Players
The increased defensive scrutiny on Kelce may inadvertently create openings for other players on the Chiefs' roster. Mahomes pointed out that as teams concentrate on shutting down Kelce, it could provide valuable chances for others. "I think the more Rashee makes plays, the more we're able to run the football, the more we can get Worthy involved, I think that’s going to open Travis up more. People are really emphasizing trying to take him away and that's getting other guys open," Mahomes explained.
Head coach Andy Reid echoed these sentiments. "They're working hard at taking Kelce out of the picture. If they're doing that, Rashee is going to get a lot of catches and [Kelce] knows that... Some time that will level off," Reid commented.
Kelce's Team-First Mentality
Despite the reduced numbers, Kelce has maintained a team-first mentality. "It's football, baby. Like, I'm not getting caught up in getting the targets and all that. I just want to have a successful offense. I think Pat's doing a great job of finding the open guy and making the right decisions right now," Kelce remarked. He emphasized his willingness to adapt and contribute to the team's success in whatever way necessary. "It's a new offense, new players, new pieces, and we're just finding how to have success throughout the season. I've had a lot of catches in this league, man. I'm not worried about the catches and the yards and all of that," he stated.
For Kelce, the primary goal remains clear. "It has everything to do with execution, just making sure that we're doing whatever we can to win these football games, man. That's always going to be the goal," he reiterated.
Looking Ahead to Week 4
As the Chiefs prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 4, history suggests this could be a breakout opportunity for Kelce. Over his last five games against the Chargers, Kelce has amassed 40 receptions, 640 yards, and six touchdowns. These numbers highlight his ability to make a significant impact, even against well-prepared defenses.
As teams across the league continue to devise strategies to neutralize Kelce, the Chiefs' ability to adapt and capitalize on shifting defensive schemes will be vital. If Kelce’s teammates can step up and exploit the openings created by his presence, it could lead to a more balanced and unpredictable Kansas City offense, making them that much more formidable as the season progresses.