Travis Kelce's Postgame Handshake With Zach Ertz Emerges

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Madz Dizon | Last updated Oct 28, 2025 7:30 AM ET

After the Kansas City Chiefs’ dominant 28–7 victory over the Washington Commanders on Monday night, cameras caught a moment that quickly gained attention: a heartfelt handshake and brief exchange between Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce and Commanders veteran Zach Ertz.

In a video shared on the Chiefs’ official Instagram account, Kelce approached Ertz near midfield following the game. The two tight ends, both considered among the best of their generation, embraced and shared a few words before parting ways.

Ertz gave Kelce a light tap on the back, a gesture of mutual respect that stood out amid the postgame commotion.

The meeting came on the same night that Kelce tied former Chiefs running back Priest Holmes for the most regular-season touchdowns in franchise history, catching a 10-yard touchdown pass from Patrick Mahomes late in the third quarter. That touchdown also marked Kelce’s 100th career touchdown across regular season and playoffs, a milestone reached by only four tight ends in NFL history.

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Travis Kelce’s Historic Night

Kelce’s milestone came during one of his best outings of the 2025 season, where he recorded six catches for 99 yards and a touchdown. The 13-year veteran’s 83rd regular-season touchdown placed him alongside Holmes atop the Chiefs’ all-time list. The game served as a reminder of Kelce’s enduring dominance and his role as the emotional core of Kansas City’s offense.

Mahomes, who completed 25 of 34 passes for 299 yards and three touchdowns, said after the win, "He’s the true Chiefs Chief. He’s been here through the whole thing, and he’s helped set the culture of what it means to play for Coach Reid and this organization."

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) with quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Mahomes even made sure to secure the football from Kelce’s record-tying touchdown as a keepsake for his longtime teammate.

"He’s breaking all the records now, and he’s all about the team," Mahomes added. "Hopefully we can get another football for him later in the season after he actually breaks the record."

Zach Ertz Hits His Own Career Milestone in Commanders’ Loss

While the night ended in defeat for the Washington Commanders, Ertz quietly achieved a historic mark of his own. In the first quarter, Ertz recorded two receptions to reach 800 career catches, joining an elite group of tight ends that includes Tony Gonzalez, Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Shannon Sharpe and Kelce himself.

Despite the team’s struggles, including three straight losses, Ertz’s achievement reflected his long-standing consistency and professionalism.

As the Chiefs prepare for a tough Week 9 matchup against the Buffalo Bills, the respect between Kelce and Ertz stands as a testament to longevity, hard work and mutual admiration among NFL veterans.

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

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