Travis Kelce is off to a rough start in the 2024 NFL season. The Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end has faced sharp criticism from both fans and analysts for his underwhelming performance. However, several current and former teammates have come to his defense, including former quarterback Chase Daniel.
Kelce’s output in the first three games has been below expectations, with just eight catches for 69 yards. However, this past Sunday, he showed signs of improvement, contributing four receptions for 30 yards in the game against the Atlanta Falcons.
Critics have examined every aspect of Kelce’s career to explain his slump, from his off-field commitments to his age, and even his relationship with pop star Taylor Swift.
Others, though, believe the 12-year veteran is on the path to regaining his usual form. One of his defenders is Chase Daniel, who shared the Chiefs’ locker room with Kelce from 2013 to 2015.
Defenses still fear Kelce
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the former Chiefs backup quarterback said, “People need to RELAX about Travis Kelce. Distractions have not caught up to him,” addressing the speculation about Kelce’s off-field commitments and his relationship with Swift.
Daniel, now an analyst, assured that Kelce remains a top threat to opposing defenses. “I’ve chatted with 2 DCs [defensive coordinators] & they said the #1 thing you have to do when you play the Chiefs is still stop Travis Kelce.”
Daniel’s opinionechoes those of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, both of whom have stated that defenses are focusing heavily on shutting down Kelce, leading to his lower production in recent games.
What’s next for Kelce and the Chiefs
This Sunday, Kelce and the Chiefswill face the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Statistically, Kelce fares well against the “Bolts,” averaging 5.6 receptions and 67.9 yards in 18 matchups, though he’s only scored eight touchdowns against them throughout his 12-year career.
The Chiefs’ upcoming schedule will be a true test, as they host the New Orleans Saints, visit the San Francisco 49ers and Las Vegas Raiders, and then return home to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
These next four games will challenge Kelce’s resilience. If the star tight end can tap into the form that made him one of the NFL’s top players, it won’t be long before he’s back to dominating defenses once again.
