Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce had been the subject of criticism through the opening weeks of the season but he returned to form with 90 yards in the win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Patrick Mahomes has voiced his trust in Travis Kelce’s abilities, stating he wasn’t concerned about the Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end’s early-season performance hiccups. Kelce rocketed back to form with a 90-yard display in the victory against the Los Angeles Chargers, but Mahomes admitted he’s anxious about teammate Rashee Rice’s condition.
After receiving some flak for only accumulating 69 yards across eight receptions in the first three games, Kelce hit back hard in the triumph over the Chargers. Mahomes had previously mentioned that opposing teams were scheming to neutralise Kelce, forcing the star quarterback to target other players.
On Kelce’s resurgence, Mahomes said after the game: “I mean, I know he always has it. Whenever we need him he comes out and makes plays. I was happy for him.”
The elation within the Chiefs’ camp was tempered by concern for Rice, who left the field in distress after a Mahomes tackle led to what looked like a serious injury. Speculation is rife about an ACL tear, a setback that could spell the end of Rice’s season.
Mahomes reflected on the situation: “Guys made plays today. We’ll see what happens with Rashee, hopefully we can get him back at some point this season. If not, other guys have gotta step up. That’s what football’s about and I think we’ve got a lot of good guys out there that can go out and make plays.”
Patrick Mahomes accidentally injured his number one receiver Rashee Rice
The Chiefs’ ace receiver Rice, who has been pivotal this season with top-notch catches and yards, placing fourth league-wide, appeared to be on track for a standout year. However, Rice’s absence will lean heavily on Kansas City relying on Kelce, alongside the fledgling Xavier Worthy who clinched a significant touchdown in the latter half that secured the win.
Post-match, ex-Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan underscored that Rice being sidelined means more pressure on Kelce as the team’s primary pass-catcher. He commented: “I think it’s going to be critical they stay on the same page.”
With the possibility of Rice being out for the season, Kansas City Chiefs are now rumoured to scour the trade market for a new wide receiver to fill the void, especially after losing Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown, anticipated as a starting player but side-lined by a preseason injury.