As speculation swirls around Travis Kelce and his future with the Kansas City Chiefs, attention is naturally turning to what comes next at the tight end position. The three-time Super Bowl champion has hinted at retirement in recent seasons, and while the Chiefs are approaching the matter with caution, the team still faces the practical reality of planning for life after Kelce.
ESPN recently released a ranking of the top 15 trade candidates at tight end, and one name immediately caught attention: Detroit Lions star Sam LaPorta.
Listed eighth overall, LaPorta‘s name came up as a potential successor should Kelce hang up the cleats.
Analysts Benjamin Solak and Dan Graziano highlighted his talent, while also noting the Lions‘ willingness-or potential necessity-to consider trading him.
Solak emphasized the strategic benefit of acquiring LaPorta via trade rather than waiting for free agency in 2027.
“There are teams that could deal for LaPorta,” Solak said.
“The return could be better than risking a bidding war in free agency, especially with his one year left on contract.”
Despite coming off back surgery last season and producing 489 receiving yards with three touchdowns – a dip from his 2023 rookie numbers – LaPorta is still considered one of the most electrifying young tight ends in the league.
For the Chiefs, who missed the playoffs in 2025, the timing could be ideal. Planning for Kelce‘s eventual exit, given his age and public comments, is a necessary part of roster strategy.
LaPorta is listed as the top “potential team fit,” by ESPN, a reflection of Kansas City‘s offense, which historically benefits from a dynamic, pass-catching tight end who can operate effectively both in-line and out of the slot.
Lions roster considerations for Chiefs trade
Graziano pointed out the structural pressures in Detroit that could make LaPorta available, even if the odds are slim.
“The Lions have four 2023 draft picks they want to extend-LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jack Campbell, and Brian Branch,” he wrote.
“There are questions around whether they can secure all four deals, or if someone might have to be moved.”
While LaPorta‘s chances of being traded remain low, the discussion underlines how NFL teams constantly balance talent, contract status, and roster flexibility.
If Kelce retires sooner rather than later, Kansas City could be in a position to pull off a trade for a player who fits seamlessly into their high-powered offense.
LaPorta himself is a strong candidate for such a role. His combination of size, athleticism, and route-running ability mirrors some of the traits that made Kelce so difficult to defend against.
Even with his post-surgery regression, he remains a young, ascending talent who could step into a high-volume passing scheme and immediately provide production.
Will the Chiefs move for LaPorta?
For the Chiefs, the decision on LaPorta will likely be a result of planning for the future and a direct link to Kelce.
Trading for a tight end of LaPorta‘s caliber could provide a bridge for the offense, keeping it competitive while allowing for a smoother transition once Kelce retires.
The conversation around LaPorta may ultimately remain theoretical until more clarity emerges from Kelce and the Chiefs‘ front office.
But with the 2026 offseason underway, teams will be evaluating their options and the opportunity to acquire a young, proven playmaker at a position Kansas City may force them into a swift decision.
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