The Kansas City Chiefs have started the 2024 NFL season on a perfect note, boasting a 3-0 record. However, this early-season success has not come without its challenges, particularly for star tight end Travis Kelce.
Three games into the season, Kelce, typically one of Patrick Mahomes' most reliable targets, has caught just eight passes for 69 yards. These numbers represent the lowest three-game stretch in terms of receptions and receiving yards in Kelce's stellar career. The reason? Intensified defensive attention.
Defensive Schemes Aimed at Kelce
Patrick Mahomes has observed firsthand how defenses are zeroing in on Kelce. "It's crazy because teams still -- the respect factor they have for Travis is just unreal. It's well-deserved. We're calling a lot of plays for Travis, and it's like two or three people are going to him," Mahomes explained.
Despite the limitations this places on Kelce's output, Mahomes remains committed to leveraging this defensive focus to the team's advantage. "I'm gonna try to do my best to keep feeding him the ball whenever he's there, whenever he's open. I think the more Rashee makes plays, the more we're able to run the football, the more we can get Worthy involved, I think that's going to open Travis up more," Mahomes continued.
Strategic Adjustments and Emerging Opportunities
Chiefs' head coach Andy Reid has also acknowledged the significant defensive schemes aimed at Kelce. "They're working hard at taking Kelce out of the picture. If they're doing that, Rashee is going to get a lot of catches and (Kelce) knows that. . .. Some time that will level off," Reid stated.
In response to these defensive tactics, the team is looking to rookie wide receiver Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy to step up. As Mahomes and Reid both noted, increased contributions from these emerging players could help diversify the Chiefs' offensive options, potentially redistributing defensive pressure and freeing up Kelce for impactful plays.
Kelce's Perspective
Travis Kelce, meanwhile, remains focused on the bigger picture. "It's football, baby. Like, I'm not getting caught up in getting the targets and all that. I just want to have a successful offense. I think Pat's doing a great job of finding the open guy and making the right decisions right now," he reflected.
Kelce's attitude highlights his maturity and understanding of the sport. "It's a new offense, new players, new pieces, and we're just finding how to have success throughout the season. I've had a lot of catches in this league, man. I'm not worried about the catches and the yards and all of that. I have the most fun when I get the ball thrown my way. I mean, who doesn't?" he added.
For Kelce, the primary goal remains clear. "It has everything to do with execution, just making sure that we're doing whatever we can to win these football games, man. That's always going to be the goal," he emphasized.
Upcoming Challenge: The Chargers
The Chiefs' next test comes in Week 4 against the Los Angeles Chargers. History suggests that Kelce has performed exceptionally well against the Chargers, accumulating 40 receptions, 640 yards, and six touchdowns in his last five encounters with the AFC West rival. Whether this trend continues in the face of the current defensive strategies aimed at him remains to be seen.
As the season progresses, the Chiefs will continue to adapt and evolve. With Mahomes at the helm, an unwavering Kelce, and emerging talents like Rice and Worthy, the team appears well-equipped to navigate the challenges ahead and strive for continued success.