Ex-Chiefs TE Defends Travis Kelce’s ‘Gladiator Style’ Play Amid Criticism After Andy Reid Shut Down Distraction Rumors

Just 8 catches for 69 yards in the first 3 games isn’t the usual start for Travis Kelce. After the “fast” tight end had a slow start, many NFL analysts and fans began questioning his potential, saying he’s getting “old” and “distracted.” However, his team thinks otherwise and has been defending him.

As always, his biggest supporter, head coach Andy Reid, said, “I know people are saying that he’s old or that he has distractions, but defenses don’t think that. Trav is fine. He just keeps being Trav. He hasn’t lost a step. He’s not distracted.” Reid added that the 34-year-old is still playing the same way. Besides Reid former Chiefs tight end Jason Dunn, praised Travis Kelce, saying, “Defenses are still fully respecting and worried about #87. They know he could go off at any moment. He’s at the top of their list.” Dunn also expressed disappointment that people think otherwise.

The former TE added, “For the record, the man is putting in a masterclass and gladiator-style performance in blocking every defender in his teammates’ way. Mad respect for the TEs bringing the pain.” Dunn believes Kelce will “light up” a few teams in the upcoming games and warned them to be prepared.

Even though the team is at 3-0, defending Kelce is getting tough for the team. Some think Kelce’s performance has dipped because of his pop star girlfriend, Taylor Swift. NFL analyst McShay raised questions on TE’s performance, “He’s been partying all offseason? He’s been jet-setting around with the most famous person in the world, drinking, going to the U.S. Open.” McShay questioned why people are afraid to admit Kelce is out of shape, given his performance.

But you must know it isn’t the first time Swift has been blamed. In 2023, many blamed TayTay for the Chiefs’ 20-14 loss against the Raiders. And claimed if she hadn’t been there, the Chiefs might have won. People even joked that her charm didn’t work despite wearing a cap with Kelce’s number. With all this going on, Kelce has still handled the situation professionally.

Travis Kelce said he is focusing on winning not catches
His 2023 season was exceptional, with 110 receptions, 12 touchdowns, and 1338 receiving yards. And, his 2022 season start was way better than 2024, with 184 receiving yards on 17 receptions in the starting three games. The three-time Super Bowl champion has only had four catches for 30 yards in Atlanta, continuing his slow start against the Ravens and Bengals.

When asked about his slow start, Kelce said, “I’ve had a lot of catches in this league, man. I’m not worried about the catches and yards.” Adding he has the most fun when he makes a goal, but it can be done by anyone in the team to contribute to the win. Kelce opined, not every ball is going to be a goal and none of this matters as long as the Chiefs are winning this game.

This might be true, as Kelce is still playing 85% of the Chiefs’ offensive snaps. He hit 85% just four times last regular season and averaged about 78% for the entire season. So, maybe people should just enjoy the Chiefs’ wins and focus less on Kelce.

Ex-Chiefs TE Defends Travis Kelce’s ‘Gladiator Style’ Play Amid Criticism After Andy Reid Shut Down Distraction Rumors