Travis Kelce’s Form Raises Doubts Ahead of 14th NFL Season

Travis Kelce faces fresh scrutiny over his 2025 decline as the Kansas City Chiefs tight end prepares for his 14th NFL season. Former linebacker Sam Acho questioned whether Kelce can regain his Super Bowl-winning form after a career-low 76 catches last year.

What happened to Travis Kelce in 2025?

Travis Kelce’s 2025 season ended with career lows in receptions and impact. He managed just 76 catches for 851 yards and five touchdowns, his lowest output in a decade. The tight end also posted seven drops at critical moments, raising questions about his reliability in key situations.

Kelce’s drop in production came as the Chiefs struggled to a 6-11 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2014. His Pro Football Network Tight End Impact score fell to 80.6, ranking fifth among NFL tight ends-down from his usual elite standing.

Why the concern about Travis Kelce matters

The doubts about Kelce’s form extend beyond his personal stats. Analysts note his decline from All-Pro levels in recent years. In 2024, he ranked 11th in PFN’s tight end impact scoring, a stark contrast to his prior dominance.

Former NFL linebacker Sam Acho highlighted the stakes during an NFL Live appearance. “Will Travis Kelce be able to get back to what he was doing during that Super Bowl run?” Acho asked. “Which is about 100 receptions, not just targets, but receptions, year in year out.”

Acho also flagged concerns about Patrick Mahomes’ recovery from an ACL and LCL tear. Mahomes aims to return by Week 1, but any delay could further complicate the Chiefs’ title hopes.

What comes next for Travis Kelce and the Chiefs?

The Chiefs’ Super Bowl aspirations now hinge on two key factors: Kelce’s bounce-back and Mahomes’ health. The team added Justin Fields in the offseason, a move that could ease the pressure on Kelce if the tight end’s production remains inconsistent.

Kelce signed a contract extension this offseason, silencing retirement rumors and marriage headlines. But as training camp approaches, the focus shifts to his on-field performance. Can he return to his elite form, or will 2025’s struggles carry over into his 14th season?

The answer could determine whether the Chiefs reclaim their place among the NFL’s elite-or face another disappointing campaign.