Record- Breaking: Kelce Shatters Records, Chiefs Shatter Expectations: Tight End Solidifies Status as All-Time Great
The Kansas City Chiefs faced their toughest stretch of the season between Week 15 and Christmas, playing three games in 11 days. Making matters worse, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a high ankle sprain during Kansas City’s 21-7 win over Cleveland Browns.
However, the Chiefs went on to take down the Houston Texans in Week 16 and defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 29-10 on Dec. 25, officially clinching the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce put on a historic performance against the Steelers, hauling in 8 catches for 84 yards and a touchdown. Kelce surpassed 1,000 career receptions, becoming the first player in franchise history to do so and just the third tight in the NFL history to reach that mark.
The 35-year-old All-Pro also broke Chiefs legend Tony Gonzalez’s record for most touchdowns in franchise history (77). On Dec. 27, the Chiefs sent the veteran tight end a message on social media.
“Best in the business,” the Chiefs wrote.
While Kelce’s overall production this season pales in comparison to other years, he’s recorded 97 receptions for 823 yards and 3 touchdowns, the future Hall of Famer isn’t stressed about it.
“The chemistry is at an all-time high right now, and I’m excited that we found a way to get the No. 1 seed and we’re going into the playoffs playing our best football.”
While Kelce’s girlfriend, Taylor Swift, didn’t attend the Chiefs-Steelers matchup in person, she liked several posts on Instagram celebrating his achievement. Thus far this season, Swift has only attended matchups at Arrowhead Stadium.
Therefore, it’s highly unlikely that the pop star will attend Kansas City’s final game of the season against the Denver Broncos at Mile High Stadium. However, with the first-round bye and home field advantage secured, it’s also highly unlikely that Kelce, or any of the team’s starters suit up in Week 18.
