As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for a pivotal divisional clash against the Los Angeles Chargers, Patrick Mahomes has made it clear where he stands on Travis Kelce’s importance to the team’s offense.

Despite a relatively slow start to the 2024 season, Kelce remains a key figure for Mahomes, even as outside speculation grows over the veteran tight end’s future.

Travis Kelce is key to Chiefs offense

Kelce has been held to just 69 yards on eight catches through the Chiefs’ first three games.

While he has yet to score a touchdown this season, Mahomes emphasized that the tight end’s contributions extend far beyond statistics.

“He’s handling [the adversity] amazing. I feel like I want to get him the ball more, whereas he’s like, ‘I just want to win, man.’ He’ll run these routes and take guys with him so that other guys can get open,” Mahomes said.

There has been some chatter among fans and analysts that the Chiefs might be moving past the 34-year-old tight end, especially as Mahomes increasingly targets younger receivers like Rashee Rice.

But Mahomes dismissed the idea of Kelce’s diminishing role, underscoring his value to the team’s success.

“We understand he’s an important part of this offense, and we want to make sure we’re still featuring him,”Mahomes affirmed.

Kelce forgets about receptions, focuses on wins

While some fans have pointed to Mahomes’ recent tendency to look for other targets as a sign of discord, Mahomes has repeatedly praised Kelce’s selfless play.

Defensive attention on Kelce often frees up other receivers, and Mahomes believes the tight end’s willingness to draw coverage away has been key to the Chiefs’ game plan.

“Teams are building their defenses around him, and that opens things up for others. It’s always been that way,” Mahomes added.

Kelce himself recently addressed the situation on his “New Heights” podcast, stating that he is focused on winning, not personal stats.

“I’m not worried about the catches and the yards and all of that. I have the most fun when the ball is thrown my way. Who doesn’t? But it has everything to do with execution and making sure we’re doing whatever we can to win these football games, man. That’s always going to be the goal.”

Mahomes’ comments come as the Chiefs approach Sunday’s game against the Chargers, which will mark his 100th career regular-season start.

Both he and Kelce will look to build momentum after a somewhat rocky start to the season.

The chemistry between the two stars, honed over 12 seasons, will likely be a key factor in Sunday’s game and beyond.