The Kansas City Chiefs face a pivotal decision this offseason: should they bring back their legendary tight end, Travis Kelce? Former Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum thinks it might be time for Kelce to suit up elsewhere.
Appearing on ESPN’s “Get Up,” Tannenbaum laid out his reasoning. "I wouldn’t do it," he stated, emphasizing the importance of paying players for future potential rather than past achievements. "He is slowing down," Tannenbaum added, pointing to the need for honest evaluations from the front office and coaching staff.
Kelce, now 36, recorded 76 receptions for 851 yards and five touchdowns last season. While still impressive, these numbers dipped from his 97 catches in 2024. Tannenbaum noted that Patrick Mahomes’ ACL tear in Week 15 against the Chargers impacted Kelce’s stats, but he also highlighted the rise of younger tight ends making waves in the league.
“When you look at the best tight ends in the game right now, Trey McBride is 27, Brock Bowers is 25, and Sam LaPorta is 25,” Tannenbaum pointed out. He also mentioned promising prospects like Kenyon Sadiq, Max Klare, and Michael Trigg coming up in the draft.
Tannenbaum’s advice for Kansas City? "Go get the next guy," he urged. While honoring Kelce’s incredible contributions, he suggests the Chiefs could address other areas like tackle, running back, and receiver.
Kelce, a four-time All-Pro and 11-time Pro Bowler, is a free agent. Though there was chatter about potential retirement, it seems Kelce is gearing up for a 14th season. The Chiefs have a tough call ahead, balancing respect for a franchise icon with the need to build for the future.