Jason Kelce Explains How Andy Reid Unlocked Travis Kelce’s Full Potential at Chiefs

Looks like the secret sauce for Travis Kelce’s dominance at the tight end isn’t just raw talent and fiery celebrations. Per his brother, former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, it all boils down to one man: Head Coach Andy Reid.

On their podcast New Heights, Jason dropped a juicy quote about a conversation Travis had with Reid early on in his Chiefs career. Apparently, Reid’s unique approach to the tight-end position left a lasting impact. Jason relayed, “[Reid] said you’re the most out of listening to what you were saying…the way you think about the game and running routes…is on a different level.”

Travis agreed, praising HC Reid. He said, “It’s a form of the way Andy Reid thinks. Shoutout to him!” The Chiefs’ QB further expressed how Reid’s guidance improved his offense and overall performance on-field, and that he wouldn’t have “played the position without Andy Reid’s guidance and trust.” It seems HC Reid empowered Travis Kelce to understand the nuances of the TE position within his offensive scheme.

This coach-player relationship has undeniably paid off! Kelce’s talent is unbeatable, but Reid’s coaching has made him the dominant TE (that he is today) with six-time Pro Bowl and Super Bowl wins. 

Travis Kelce credits head coach Reid for Super Bowl success

Three Super Bowl rings. Travis Kelce isn’t your average tight end; he’s a game-changing force in the NFL, considered one of the best ever. But the Kansas City star reveals the secret weapon behind his dominance: the wisdom of Head Coach Andy Reid (coaching mastermind with a perfect 100 regular-season wins).

Reid and Kelce joined the Chiefs the same year, beginning a famous partnership. During a recent ZenWTR campaign, Kelce shared a brilliant quote from Reid that said, “Don’t lose your personality. Allow that to be seen.” This simple credo helped Kelce accept his individualism on-field. 

The 34-year-old stated, “Nowadays, I’m thinking more about why Coach Reid loves this play. Why does [Mahomes] like this route versus this coverage? It’s more of a chess mentality. It’s like how we’re going to beat our opponents. Instead of just… I’m an athlete and I’m just a football player.”

Per Kelce, having great mentors who check you, “but also reassure you” is essential. The three-time Super Bowl champion emphasized, “Having great coaches is the biggest in terms of growth.” It’s safe to say, Kelce’s Super Bowl reign is far from over, thanks to coach Reid’s guidance.