Every bromance has a backstory and a good one. So, what’s Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes’ story from back-in-the-day? You see, they didn’t just wake up one day as the dynamic duo we know today. Remember that rookie-year story Mahomes shared on the New Heights Podcast? Both he and Kelce showed up late to practice, earning a death glare from Andy Reid and some brutal conditioning drills as punishment.

Not exactly the ideal bonding experience, but hey, it worked. Fast forward to today: 109 games together, three Super Bowls, and a connection most teams only dream of.

So, how does Mahomes feel about the idea of Kelce calling it quits someday? And that day is nearing, as Kelce is getting older. Let’s just say Pat’s not ready. When asked, the Chiefs #15 kept it real: “I haven’t [thought about it]. That’s something you worry about in the offseason. But, regardless, I just appreciate the time I am on the football pitch with him.”

And honestly, wouldn’t you? Playing alongside a guy like Kelce isn’t just a blessing—it’s a cheat code.

Mahomes got nostalgic too, recalling how it all started: “That started whenever I first got here. I mean, how blessed I was to have that guy on my team.” The respect runs deep. “Every opportunity I step on the football pitch [with him] I appreciate it. Hopefully, that’s a lot more years. But I’ll appreciate it every time I do.” Spoken like someone who knows exactly how special this partnership is.

Right now, yes, the focus is on the 3-peat… The title clash against the Bills. But the topic of Trav retiring is looming like anything. Even more so now, especially after his January interview with Stephen A. Smith. While he didn’t confirm any plans to hang up his cleats, he left the door open: “I’ll reevaluate it like I always do, and I’ll probably tell myself how much I love this thing and I’ll come back next year.”

Contractually, the Chiefs’ tight end is locked in through 2025 after signing a two-year, $34.25 million extension in April 2024. He’s had another solid season, with 97 catches for 823 yards and three touchdowns (in the regular season). Yeah, we know that you know, this is a drop of from his usual 1000+ yards seasons. But keep in mind the age factor, folks.

And yet, in the playoffs, he’s still the guy Mahomes turns to when it matters most, racking up seven receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown in the Divisional Round? You can not question Trav’s GOAT status. Even Andy Reid did not when he said: “He’s the greatest there’s ever been.” I mean, for now, ahead of the Bills game, Coach Reid need not have to worry about his #87. 

Patrick Mahomes might need more than Travis Kelce to get past the Bills

Ah, the Bills—Josh Allen’s Bills. That 30-21 loss from earlier this season? Ghost of Buffalo… It’s still hanging around. Andy Reid hasn’t forgotten, and neither has Patrick Mahomes. Adding to the challenge, Mecole Hardman is officially done for the year. The three-time champ with his mix of 12 catches, 5 rushes, and 20 returns will be missed. So, where does that leave Mahomes?

Let’s not sugarcoat it—Mahomes needs more than Kelce to get past the Bills. Kelce is a legend, sure. But this is about more than one man. Reid’s already hinted at what’s missing: balance. The Chiefs’ defense, ranked ninth overall this season, has to come up big. Chris Jones and Jaylen Watson (the guy wasn’t there in Buffalo, but would look settle the debts when it matters the most)? They’re not just key; they’re essential.

On offense, Mahomes can’t just sling it to Kelce all game. The onus is on Xavier Worthy to be the guy for his guy under center, yet again. I mean, he’s their only WR weapon with receptions this season. And don’t forget about the running game. Isiah Pacheco must find the rhythm. Or rather A-Game. The Chiefs need to control the clock and keep Josh Allen off the field. Simple? Not quite.

Special teams might just tip the scale. Harrison Butker better get those extra leg works in, and the return team needs to deliver. Games like these can swing on a single punt or kickoff return. You don’t need a highlight reel—just efficiency and zero mistakes. And keep bringing those Ws for Pat. He’s 16-3 in the postseason so far in his career. Yeah, beat that!

Mahomes himself knows this isn’t about being flashy. His growth as a QB shows in his willingness to let others shine. As he put it, “I just want to win… however we have to win the football game, I’m good with it.” That’s maturity—and maybe the Chiefs’ secret weapon.

So, can Mahomes and the Chiefs outplay the Bills and march toward another Super Bowl? That’s the million-dollar question. One thing’s for sure: they’ll need every piece of the puzzle to fall into place. Because in this league, even Mahomes magic needs a little help.