DINH DOONG

Travis Kelce, one of the NFL’s greatest tight ends, has been off to an uncharacteristically slow start this season. While the Kansas City Chiefs maintain their undefeated 3-0 record, Kelce’s performance has fallen short of his usual dominance, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

After a recent game, Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs’ star quarterback, offered some insight into the situation, pointing to a key factor: opposing defenses’ increased focus on stopping Kelce.

During the Chiefs’ 22-7 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, Kelce recorded only four catches for 30 yards, leaving him visibly frustrated on the sideline. Cameras captured a moment of disappointment from Kelce, which quickly went viral on social media.

To further add to the buzz, his girlfriend, Taylor Swift, who has made headlines recently for attending several Chiefs games, was notably absent, possibly adding to the tight end’s somber mood.

But Mahomes assures fans that Kelce’s struggles aren’t entirely due to a lack of effort on the part of the Chiefs offense. “We’re calling a lot of plays for Travis, but it’s like two or three people are going to him every time,” Mahomes said, highlighting how opposing defenses are employing multiple defenders to neutralize Kelce’s impact.

Mahomes added that despite the increased defensive attention, Kelce remains focused on the team’s success. “He understands the situation. People are really emphasizing trying to take him away, and it’s getting other guys open,” Mahomes noted. As other players like rookie wide receiver Rashee Rice and veteran running back Isiah Pacheco continue to step up, the Chiefs’ offense is finding ways to thrive, even if Kelce’s individual stats suffer.

Although Kelce’s numbers are down, Mahomes is confident his star tight end will find his rhythm as the season progresses. “As other guys keep making plays, defenses are going to have to adjust, and that’s when you’ll see Travis start to get back into the flow.”

Kelce, a 34-year-old veteran chasing his fourth Super Bowl ring, has been a consistent offensive powerhouse for the Chiefs over the years. With the team undefeated and Mahomes playing at an elite level, fans are optimistic that Kelce will soon return to his usual form. For now, the Chiefs are navigating through a season where opposing teams are putting a heavy emphasis on stopping one of the NFL’s best tight ends—and succeeding for the moment.

With many games ahead, it remains to be seen whether defenses can continue to keep Kelce in check or if Mahomes and the Chiefs will find a way to get their star tight end back in the spotlight.