Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

NFL Makes Punishment Decision on Chiefs TE Travis Kelce

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Nov 22, 2025 4:02 PM ET

Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs dropped their second straight game in Week 11, falling to 5-5 on the 2025 NFL season after a 22-19 loss to Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos in an AFC West showdown. Despite the loss, Kelce still had a solid game, recording nine catches for 91 yards and a touchdown, breaking the Chiefs' all-time touchdown record in the process.

With 7:02 remaining in the first half of the loss to Denver, Kelce caught a pass from Patrick Mahomes and picked up 10 yards for a first down. After the play, Kelce exchanged words with Broncos cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian, getting in the defender’s face before the two were separated by teammates.

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) reacts after his touchdown against the Denver Broncos.© Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

While no flag was called on the play for unsportsmanlike conduct, Kelce could have had a fine coming his way. In the NFL, players can be fined up to $14,491 for a first unsportsmanlike conduct, which can increase to $20,288 upon a second violation during the same season. And on Saturday, the NFL revealed that Kelce wasn't fined for his actions against the Broncos.

Kelce has already been fined for unsportsmanlike conduct this season, receiving a $14,491 penalty for an “obscene gesture” in Week 2 against the Philadelphia Eagles. In fact, his previous six fines have all stemmed from unsportsmanlike conduct or taunting. Prior to Week 11, Kelce had been fined a total of 10 times in his 13-year NFL career for $133,918.

Tony Romo: "[Travis Kelce] has looked sprightly this year..."

Jim Nantz: "Did you say 'sprightly'? That is big for you, Tony."

Tony Romo: "I know. I read the dictionary this week. It's the first time."

Jim Nantz: "I'm impressed. Awesome." ️ #NFL pic.twitter.com/4heRLOYJI8
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) November 16, 2025

While Kelce and the Chiefs continue their push for a spot in the playoffs, the road doesn't get much easier. Up next, they will host Daniel Jones and the Indianapolis Colts in Week 12 before heading down to Arlington, Texas, for a Thanksgiving matchup against Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys in Week 13.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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