As rumors swirl around the possible retirement of Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce, the team might be on the lookout for his eventual successor. While the Chiefs are handling the Kelce situation with care, there's buzz about a potential replacement that could fit right in after Kelce hangs up his cleats.
ESPN recently ranked the top 15 trade candidates, and Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta landed at number eight. Analysts Benjamin Solak and Dan Graziano discussed his potential future, noting that some teams might prefer trading for LaPorta rather than engaging in a free agency bidding war in 2027.
The Chiefs were highlighted as a prime contender for LaPorta’s talents. Despite LaPorta undergoing back surgery last season, which saw his stats dip to 489 receiving yards and three touchdowns, he remains a dynamic presence at the tight end position. As a rookie, he posted impressive numbers with 889 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2023, showcasing his potential.
With the Chiefs missing the playoffs in the 2026 season, the urgency to find Kelce’s replacement is palpable, regardless of whether Kelce retires this year. LaPorta's name surfaces due to the Lions' situation, as Graziano points out, with four key players from their 2023 draft class, including LaPorta, up for extensions.
“The Lions have four 2023 draft picks they want to extend - LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jack Campbell, and Brian Branch,” Graziano noted, raising questions about whether the Lions can secure all these deals or if they might need to trade one of them.
While the likelihood of LaPorta being traded is considered low, at about a 10 percent chance, the Chiefs’ strategy at tight end will depend heavily on Kelce’s decision regarding his future. The situation remains fluid, and Chiefs fans will be watching closely to see how this unfolds.