Statistically speaking, no longer can anyone dance past the fact that it has been a slump of a season for the 35-year-old veteran TE Travis Kelce. Scoring just two TDs in their first 15 games this season when he has never finished a season with less than five and 739 receiving yards vis-a-vis his lowest-ever 862 way back in his rookie campaign in 2014 certainly put things into perspective. Better late than never, the Chiefs just added a twist to their playoff playbook, one that has kept everyone buzzed about what this means for Travis Kelce. Is Andy Reid planning something bold, or is this just a depth move?

Well, the Chiefs signed veteran tight end Robert Tonyan to their practice squad ahead of their Pittsburgh Steelers clash on Christmas Day, fueling speculation about Kelce’s role. Despite career-low numbers this season, Kelce remains Patrick Mahomes’ top target, but head coach Andy Reid hinted at something deeper, one that stemmed from when the Steelers coach had heavily appreciated Kelce for his team-first actions. During a news conference on Saturday, Mike Tomlin said,

“Can’t say enough about Kelce, man…He is a completely unselfish player. I don’t think that he gets enough credit for that. Big playmaker certainly. But some of the things you see he does without the ball in his hands for others in terms of getting them open. As I mentioned, he’s really good at play extensions and finding spacing, and being on the same page with the quarterback. He’s also done a really nice job from a protection standpoint… Another reason why I’m really impressed with the unselfishness of his play,” the coach concluded. Reflecting on this, Reid couldn’t agree more,

“He does a great job with all that, good team leader. That’s why he has been voted the captain the last, how many years, during the playoffs. Mike’s right on that. ‘He’ll sacrifice for the cause,’ as he would say. I’m not telling you he doesn’t like to play and catch and do all that stuff. He loves that but, at the same time, he’s willing to help out everywhere,” Reid said, reflecting on Steelers coach Mike Tomlin’s assessment of Kelce.

Kelce’s adaptability has been crucial, with Kansas City’s O-Line challenges this season. The O-Line has allowed Mahomes to be sacked a career-high 36 times this season. And it forced Kelce to contribute more as a blocker. Even as his receiving stats dipped, his impact on the field hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Tonyan’s arrival, however, changes the dynamics. Known for his red-zone prowess, Tonyan could relieve Travis Kelce from all-down duties. This strategic shift might free Kelce to focus on critical playoff moments. But let’s be real, the veteran tight end hasn’t been the most prolific of players. During his NFL career that started as an undrafted free agent in 2017, the TE has spent time with every team on the NFC North—the Detroit Lions (2017), Green Bay Packers (2017-22), Chicago Bears (2023), and the Minnesota Vikings (2024). He was release from the Vikings on November 29 this year, to make room for quarterback Daniel Jones on the practice squad.

As for his stats, Tonyan scored 11 of the 17 receiving touchdowns of his career during the 2020 season with the Packers. As for the rest, one TD each in 2018 and 19, and two each in 2021 and 2022; all with that same team. Notably, that’s the only team he’s able to score with till date. Hopefully, Reid will work his magic, which brings us to our next question:

Could this be the perfect setup for a postseason resurgence?

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The timing of this move is significant, with Kansas City gearing up for a tough Week 17 against the Steelers. Kelce’s evolving role could be the X-factor the Chiefs need to unlock their playoff potential.

Travis Kelce’s role evolves as Tonyan adds depth

Travis Kelce has been a very important cog in the wheel for Kansas City. Robert Tonyan now brings experience and versatility. But his signing raises questions about Kansas City’s playoff approach. At 6-foot-5, Tonyan offers a reliable red-zone target and solid depth. However, Tonyan’s has been through highs and lows.

Though he showcased his potential in his breakout season with the Packers, injuries slowed him down. This year, he hasn’t registered a stat in five games. Still, the Chiefs see value in his experience, especially as Kelce shifts focus to strategic moments. This move also comes as Kansas City grapples with a tight end room riddled with injuries.

Rookie tight end Baylor Cupp is on the practice squad injured list, while Anthony Firkser’s practice squad elevations are maxed out. Tonyan’s addition ensures depth, but it could also hint at Reid’s evolving offensive strategy. As the Chiefs head to Pittsburgh for a Christmas Day clash, all eyes will be on Travis Kelce and Tonyan. Will Tonyan see immediate action, or is this a long-term move for postseason depth? Either way, the stakes are high.

Kansas City, already a top contender, seems to be planning for every scenario. Kelce’s leadership and adaptability, combined with Tonyan’s potential, could be the secret sauce for another Super Bowl run. As Reid said, “He’ll sacrifice for the cause.” It seems the Chiefs are banking on that sacrifice to pay off big time.