Patrick Mahomes addresses early concern about struggling Chiefs

The Chiefs, who are 0-2 following the loss to Philadelphia, must make changes heading into Sunday's game at the New York Giants (0-2). Should that include relying on Kelce less? In his Wednesday news conference, Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes discussed whether they should do that. 

Mahomes says they're not relying on Kelce too much

"I know he wants to be out there at the end of the day, he wants to have the chance to make the plays happen, and he's made the plays happen for years," the QB told the media. "I don't feel like we ask too much of him. We ask for him to be out there and be himself, and just be who he is, and that in itself is enough for us."

The future Hall of Famer Kelce has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs' passing offense in 13 seasons with the club. He ranks first in franchise history in receiving yards (12,259) and touchdown catches (78).

However, his numbers are dipping. Through two games, the TE is averaging 54 receiving yards per game, the fourth-lowest mark of his career. Still, Kelce is second on the team in targets (10) behind wide receiver Marquise "Hollywood" Brown (21).

Now, Kansas City may start targeting Kelce less after WRs Xavier Worthy (shoulder) and rookie Jalen Royals (knee) return from injuries. Both practiced on Wednesday with no limitations. WR Rashee Rice, meanwhile, still must miss three more games after being suspended for his role in a multi-car crash in March 2024.

On Wednesday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said they'll continue to watch Kelce's workload. That seems smart. The TE doesn't look as reliable as he used to be, and they don't want to be overdependent on him.