The Kansas City Chiefs may sit among the NFL’s elite, but even their brightest stars are not immune to challenges.
In the 2024 season, the connection between Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce—a duo often hailed as one of the league’s most formidable—has appeared out of sync. Kelce, the Chiefs’ veteran tight end, recently addressed the issue during an episode of his New Heights podcast, which he co-hosts with his brother Jason.
“Once we get in that red zone, man, I get a little hungrier, and right now, for whatever reason this year, I just can’t find my way in the end zone,” Kelce admitted, as quoted by Sports Illustrated’s Kristen Wong. “I’m just not on the same page as Pat, and it can get frustrating.”
This is not the first time Kelce has voiced concerns about his chemistry with Mahomes this season. Back in October, the tight end had already acknowledged the struggle, further fueling speculation about what might be hindering the connection that has defined the Chiefs’ offensive dominance in recent years.
Through 13 weeks of the season, Kelce has amassed 75 receptions for 637 yards, solid numbers by most standards. However, with just two touchdowns to his name, it’s clear the red zone efficiency between Kelce and Mahomes has taken a hit compared to previous years. For a player who has consistently been one of the league’s top scoring threats, this marks a noticeable dip in production.
In Kansas City’s recent 19-17 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, Kelce was targeted 13 times, securing seven receptions for 68 yards. While his performance helped move the chains, it lacked the explosive plays and end-zone visits that have become his trademark. Still, the game offered a glimpse of the creativity Kelce is known for, highlighted by a lateral pass to running back Samaje Perine after a short reception in the second quarter.
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Though the play achieved its intended result—a first down—it prompted a lighthearted warning from head coach Andy Reid. “We do it in practice every day,” Reid said after the game. “This isn’t just something that we throw out there on game day. It’s something we do, so everything is OK with that just as long as you complete them.”
Kelce’s improvisational tendencies have long been a part of his game, but Reid’s comments reflect the need for disciplined execution, especially in tight games where every play matters. The Chiefs have leaned on their defense more heavily this season, and with Mahomes and Kelce searching for their usual rhythm, the margin for error has been smaller.
At 35 years old, Kelce remains one of the league’s most reliable targets, but questions about his age and durability are inevitable. The grind of a long NFL career can take its toll, and while Kelce has shown no signs of slowing down physically, the mental aspect of staying in sync with Mahomes could be adding to the challenges.
For Mahomes, the task of adjusting to a constantly evolving supporting cast is nothing new. However, Kelce has been the constant—a safety valve and big-play machine. The apparent disconnect this season has sparked discussions about whether defenses have figured out ways to neutralize their chemistry or if the duo is simply experiencing an uncharacteristic slump.
Despite these struggles, Kelce remains optimistic about turning things around. He emphasized the importance of staying focused and continuing to work on improving the connection with Mahomes. “It’s frustrating, sure, but we’ve been through tough stretches before, and I have no doubt we’ll find our groove again,” he said.
The Chiefs’ offense, built on explosive plays and surgical efficiency, thrives on the bond between its quarterback and tight end. As Kansas City continues its quest for another Super Bowl run, rediscovering the magic between Mahomes and Kelce will be pivotal. For now, the NFL world watches closely, knowing that when these two are in sync, they are nearly unstoppable.
