When Patrick Mahomes calls you “the guy,” it’s not just lip service—it’s gospel. And with Travis Kelce being that guy, it’s clear the duo isn’t just a connection; they’re a full-blown NFL bromance. After the Chiefs’ win over the Steelers, Mahomes put it plainly: “The big guy leads us all… I’m trying to hold on to it as long as possible.” But here’s the kicker: Kelce’s evolving role in the offense could make that eventual goodbye sting even more.

NFL analyst Brian Baldinger didn’t mince words about Kelce’s impact, especially his blocking (the area where he is getting better at): “Just watching Travis Kelce in the game [against the Steelers]… there he was blocking Cam Heyward just long enough for Mahomes to get rid of the ball.” The Chiefs aren’t just relying on Kelce for those highlight-reel grabs anymore. From sealing running lanes to protecting Mahomes, Kelce’s versatility is what’s in the last few chapters of Andy Reid’s playbook.

The Pittsburgh game was a perfect representation of KC‘s #87 getting the reins as a receiver and a blocker security blanket. But signs were there even before the Steelers game.

Case in point? The win over the Texans. Late in the first half, Kelce read man coverage and veered off his route, blocking a defender and springing Samaje Perine for a massive 36-yard gain. It was so typical of Trav to put the ‘team first’ mentality and create opportunities.

Andy Reid summed it up best: “He’ll sacrifice for the cause… he loves to play and catch, but he’s willing to help out everywhere.” It’s that unselfish attitude that’s earned Kelce his captain stripes season after season. The Steelers HC Mike Tomlin also highlighted this, and yet, he could not stop the inevitable from happening.

Mahomes & Co. would have a hard time moving on from unselfish Travis Kelce

There is one side to it where Patrick Mahomes isn’t ready to imagine life without Travis Kelce, calling him a luxury. Then there is another side to it where the rival coaches can’t help but sing his praises. Mike Tomlin echoed the same praises that Reid hurled at Trav, saying Kelce doesn’t get enough credit for “what he does without the ball.”

Big plays? Sure. But his blocking, leadership, and knack for making teammates shine? That’s what makes him irreplaceable. Now, irreplaceable might sound a bit far-fetched. However, we are talking about the future HOFer right now. That legacy, sense of game reading, readiness to commit all-in, and the grit to be the hero on the gridiron. These attributes can go missing in a lot of next-gen stars in the making.

Take the Steelers game as Exhibit A. Kelce was out there frustrating T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward, throwing blocks like it’s second nature. His protection gave Mahomes the time to make magic happen. He was basically doing whatever it took to keep the chains moving. Now, these are all on-field contributions.

But behind the scenes, Kelce has been a mentor to younger players, sharing tips and boosting their confidence. Remember when Trav did not hold back on his New Heights Podcast to sing praises about Noah Gray? And when Chris Jones suffered a calf injury, it was Kelce who was there, offering support. He’s the ultimate team-first guy—never chasing personal glory, always putting the squad above all.

If we put it simply then, Kelce isn’t just a tight end; he’s the glue that holds Kansas City together. A life without him? Yeah, you can bet no one’s manifesting that in the kingdom.