Patrick Mahomes’ Return Could Push Travis Kelce Past Two NFL Records in Week 1

Patrick Mahomes’ expected Week 1 return could hand Travis Kelce the boost he needs to chase down two major NFL records in his first game back from injury.

What’s at stake for Travis Kelce in Week 1

Travis Kelce enters the 2026 season 45 yards shy of passing Jason Witten for second all-time among tight ends in receiving yards. Kelce sits at 13,002 career yards, just behind Tony Gonzalez (15,127) and Witten (13,046). A Week 1 outing against the Denver Broncos on *Monday Night Football* could see him leapfrog Witten if he logs minimal production.

Kelce also sits 88 yards outside the NFL’s top-20 all-time receiving list. Steve Largent currently holds the No. 20 spot with 13,089 yards, meaning Kelce needs a modest push to crack the top 20. Mike Evans, now with 13,052 yards after signing with the San Francisco 49ers, lurks just behind him.

Why Patrick Mahomes’ return matters for Kelce’s chase

Patrick Mahomes tore his ACL and LCL on December 14, derailing the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense for much of last season. The Chiefs limped to a 6-8 record in games he started after the injury, exposing the team’s reliance on his playmaking.

Mahomes has since attacked his rehab, taking part in limited OTAs and eyeing a full return for the Chiefs’ Week 1 opener. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Mahomes is “on track to be on the field Week 1,” fueling optimism around the Chiefs’ offense.

What happens if Kelce breaks the records

A Week 1 record-break would cap a career already packed with 11 Pro Bowls, four First-Team All-Pro nods, and three Super Bowl titles. Kelce’s postseason resume adds 178 catches for 2,078 yards and 20 touchdowns in 25 games.

If he climbs into the top 20 all-time, Kelce could soon target the top 15-and even the top 10-before the season ends. A return to the 1,000-yard plateau for the first time since 2022 would accelerate that climb.

Chiefs’ offense hinges on Mahomes’ health

The Chiefs’ outlook shifts dramatically with Mahomes back under center. His absence last season exposed the offense’s limitations, and his return could unlock Kelce’s record-chasing potential.

Kelce’s durability and Mahomes’ recovery timeline make this a rare convergence of milestones in Week 1. The stage is set for a historic start to the season.