In a move that solidifies his future with the Kansas City Chiefs, Travis Kelce inked a new contract potentially worth up to $57 million. However, the deal is more likely to function as a one-year, $12 million agreement, sweetened with $3 million in incentives.
Kelce's performance in 2025 was nothing short of impressive. He snagged 76 receptions for 851 yards and found the end zone five times, leading the Chiefs in all three categories. This achievement marked his 12th straight season with at least 800 receiving yards, tying the legendary Jerry Rice for the longest streak in NFL history.
As Kelce gears up for the 2026 season, there's buzz about the Chiefs looking ahead to the future. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. suggests that Kansas City should consider drafting Kelce's successor in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
In a new three-round mock draft, Kiper, alongside ESPN analysts Matt Miller, Jordan Reid, and Field Yates, projects the Chiefs selecting Kenyon Sadiq, a standout from Oregon, with the ninth overall pick.
Kiper noted, "Yes, Travis Kelce is back in Kansas City. But he's turning 37 next season, and quarterback Patrick Mahomes needs playmakers in this offense. Sadiq is as explosive and versatile as they come."
Sadiq's performance at the NFL Combine certainly turned heads. He clocked a blazing 4.39-second 40-yard dash, placing him in the 98th percentile for tight ends. His 43.5-inch vertical leap and 11-foot-1 broad jump were similarly elite, ranking in the 99th and 98th percentiles, respectively.
Sadiq himself highlighted the importance of versatility, saying, "Being able to create explosive pass plays, but also being able to run the ball, creates a lot of mismatches on the defensive side, whether they're nickel or base or whatever it is. So, I think if you have a great tight end or a couple great tight ends, it really helps out your offense as a whole."
With Kelce still at the helm and the potential addition of Sadiq, the Chiefs are looking to maintain their offensive prowess while planning for the future.