The Kansas City Chiefs are just one win away from reaching the Super Bowl for the fifth time in the last six seasons. This would have seemed unfathomable to practically every Chiefs fan who grew up from the 1970s and on. After the Chiefs won the Super Bowl in 1970, they went 50 years before making it back to The Big Game. This hot run of success can be directly attributed to Patrick Mahomes becoming the starting quarterback of the Chiefs. But there’s more at play.
Of course, one player can’t do it all alone. Mahomes has gotten help from an incredible coaching staff, as well as massive contributions from veterans like Chris Jones and Travis Kelce. The latter has arguably been just as important than Mahomes, as the legendary tight end has been a menace in each of Kansas City’s playoff runs. But his impact goes well beyond the numbers.
Travis Kelce’s teammates explain what makes him so special
ESPN’s Adam Teicher spoke to several of Kelce’s current and former teammates, and it’s incredible how many of them have felt galvanized by Kelce’s motivation and infectious personality.
“If I had to make a team from those guys of the teammates I remember and will always remember, Travis is absolutely first-team on that list. Travis is a guy who gives energy. Every interaction with him you like. You always feel better after talking to him.” – Former quarterback Alex Smith, who played with Kelce on the Chiefs for five seasons.
“Every time somebody makes a play, he’ll call him out specifically or go on the side after a play: ‘That’s great, that’s great. Keep it going, keep it going.’ He’s so personable, but at the same time he’s a great leader.” – current Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal.
“I told him, ‘I lost the game for us.’ He told me I would help the Chiefs win a lot of games. He was a big morale boost for me. He made sure I didn’t lose confidence in myself. I don’t know what would have happened without Travis.” – Former Chiefs running back Charcandrick West, who spent four seasons as Kelce’s teammate.
Just from the words of his teammates, it’s increasingly clear why Kelce is so respected by his teammates and everyone around the league. His success, and the Chiefs success, is directly tied to his attitude and personality.
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