Chiefs Teammate Has Strong Words About Travis Kelce

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce continues to set the tone for his teammates even as he enters what could be the later stages of a long and decorated career.

The veteran has drawn plenty of positive comments from coaches and players as training camp wrapped up. His consistent effort on the practice field has stood out, especially given his age and the option many veterans have to take lighter days.

Head coach Andy Reid noted that Kelce has largely skipped the usual rest periods afforded to older players. Reid said he sometimes had to step in and require Kelce to take a break, underscoring just how driven the tight end remains.

That approach has not gone unnoticed in the locker room. Linebacker Nick Bolton described Kelce’s energy as something that spreads to others and motivates the group to match his intensity.

“There’s no excuses when you have the old guy out there running routes and stuff like that,” Bolton said, also saying that it’s “been fun to watch [Kelce] work.”

Kelce recognizes the responsibility that comes with his experience. With the exception of long snapper James Winchester, who is also 37, nearly the entire roster looks up to him for guidance both on the field and off it.

He has spoken openly about wanting to be a reliable presence when challenges arise.

“When we get stuck, with adversity hitting, who’s going to want you in that foxhole with you?” Kelce said. “That’s one of those things, I want to be one of those guys that everybody counts on to be there and get us out of that foxhole.”

The tight end also accepted some responsibility for the team’s disappointing 2025 season, which ended without a playoff berth for the first time in more than 10 years.

“There were things I could have done better in that regard,” he said. “I feel ready to rock and roll. Just trying to make sure I set that example for the guys around me, that this is the standard.”

Despite occasional issues with dropped passes last year, Kelce still put up solid numbers. He led the Chiefs with 108 targets, finishing with 76 catches for 851 yards and five touchdowns.

His return for another season came after he briefly weighed retirement before signing a new deal. The decision appears to have left him focused and motivated heading into the upcoming campaign.

Off the field, Kelce balanced football preparations with major personal milestones this summer. He and Taylor Swift were married in July, allowing them a short stretch of time together before camp began in late July.

In addition, Kelce recently launched a new business initiative. He partnered with Publicis Group and his commercial representatives at 3 Arts Entertainment to create a NIL consulting and activation service aimed at connecting brands with athletes more efficiently.

“I am excited to leverage my lived experience and professional perspective to help close the gap for brands and athletes alike,” Kelce said. “Streamlining the process will allow everyone to fully realize the potential of engaging across the board, including the significant opportunity that lies in those untapped sports and undiscovered personalities.”

Through it all, Kelce has maintained a clear emphasis on preparing for the season ahead. His teammates and coaches see him as someone still fully committed to elevating the standard inside the organization as the Chiefs aim to return to postseason contention.