The Kansas City Chiefs have hit a rough patch, suffering their fourth loss in five weeks. Analysts are now debating if the era of dominance is finally coming to a close. After a decade of playoff appearances and successful seasons, the team faces the alarming prospect of missing the postseason this year. Among these discussions, Stephen A. Smith suggests that veteran tight end Travis Kelce might be nearing retirement.
For 13 years, Kelce has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs. Having spent his entire career with the team, he has led in receiving yards seven times. Even at 36, he remains a key player, leading the team in receptions (60), targets (83), and receiving yards (727), while also tying for the most touchdowns (5).
Despite his impressive contributions, Stephen A. believes the Chiefs will need to search for a new tight end this offseason.
“The fact is you’re going to get a new tight end because I think Travis Kelce is going to retire,” Stephen A. remarked on First Take.
He later reinforced this assertion, suggesting Kelce might have returned this season primarily because of how the Chiefs lost in last year’s Super Bowl. With the team struggling to secure a playoff spot, it’s increasingly likely that Kelce could step away from the game soon.
Smith also highlighted the significant challenges the Chiefs face with their offensive line this season. He emphasized that their current strategy isn’t sustainable.
“Looking at the offensive line now, the lack of protection is glaring. You had three players down: Josh Simmons, Trey Smith, and Juwaan Taylor. Then, Morris gets carted off, leaving you with a fifth-string tackle,” Stephen A. noted. “They’re really struggling on the offensive line, and that’s a major issue. Fix that, and a lot of these problems vanish.”
Indeed. Wanya Morris was expected to step up as the Chiefs’ left tackle, but he was injured during the first play of the game. This unfortunate injury forced Esa Pole, a rookie who was undrafted, to come into the game and perform admirably under pressure.
Even with the offensive line issues and the potential retirement of Kelce, Stephen A. doesn’t believe the Chiefs need an entire roster overhaul next season.
“With Patrick Mahomes on the team, along with Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Thornton, the Kansas City Chiefs don’t need to completely re-tool. They just need to strengthen the offensive line and get players healthy,” Stephen A. concluded.
Let’s hope that’s all it takes, as Kansas City has appeared disjointed all season. Just when they find their rhythm, something disrupts their momentum. It’s as if the football gods are testing their resolve after years of favorable outcomes.
If the Chiefs do miss the playoffs, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Kelce retire. However, it would seem bittersweet, especially given his desire to rectify last season’s Super Bowl performance. Wouldn’t he want to go out on a high note, clutching a Lombardi Trophy?
Currently, it seems like a long shot. Additionally, Kelce’s high salary cap hit might limit the Chiefs’ ability to invest in other critical positions. Yet, as a future Hall of Famer and one of the all-time greats, if he opts to continue playing, the Chiefs would surely welcome him back.
