The Kansas City Chiefs headed into the 2025 NFL season with high hopes of seeing a resurgence from tight end Travis Kelce. With rumors of the campaign potentially being his last, Chiefs fans would love nothing more than to see a beloved player go out on top. This desire was bolstered by the fact that Kelce was locked in the entire offseason, showing up in incredible shape.
Kelce's Week 1 was a mixed bag, headlined with an untimely collision with wideout Xavier Worthy that took all the early air out of the offense. Still, the tight end caught two balls for 47 yards and an impressive touchdown scamper. The run reminded fans of the domination they are used to watching from the pass catcher and kept hopes alive of a 2025 return to form, and with the way KC's passing situation looks in Week 2, Kelce is needed more than ever to continue leading the charge.
Chiefs' TE Travis Kelce Leading by Example is Quietly Pivotal in Week 2
Even though his best days are behind him, last year's version of Kelce is vital to this team. He's still often quarterback Patrick Mahomes' go-to target due to his history of impacting each and every game at a high level, whether it's being the best pass-catcher on the field or getting involved as a blocker.
It is this version of Kelce that fans are hoping to see make a return starting in Week 2 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Rashee Rice is out for the next five games, and it appears unlikely that either Xavier Worthy or Jalen Royals is going to be able to go either, leaving Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid with a questionable cast of playmakers to rely on in an important home opener.
If there was ever a regular-season game that Kelce needs to turn back the clock and become the monster he has been throughout his career, it is Week 2's Super Bowl 59 rematch vs. the Eagles. The 35-year-old TE immediately stepping up to begin the game would put a lot of these hopes to bed.
Father Time is undefeated for a reason, and Kelce won't be his old self on every down. Still, a crucial catch here and a timely touchdown there would make all the difference.
Kelce should have a bit of extra motivation as well after admitting fault that caused Worthy's injury. Even though he can't take back what's already one, turning back the clock and leading the Chiefs to victory this weekend would be the perfect apology gift.