Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, preparing for his 14th NFL season, displayed a notable burst of agility during recent one-on-one drills. The 36-year-old player executed a quick shake-and-bake maneuver against safety Alohi Gilman, leaving the defender behind and creating an open path for an easy reception. This demonstration occurred amidst speculation about his current impact level in the league.
Online reactions to the drill highlighted Kelce's movement, with some users expressing surprise and admiration. Comments on social media noted his ability to still move effectively, with some humorously remarking on the difficulty of defending such a move. Others commented on Gilman's positioning, suggesting it indicated his role as a backup.
This practice display comes shortly after reports surfaced suggesting skepticism from NFL scouts regarding Kelce's continued effectiveness. According to reporting from Casino Guru News, citing NFL insider Jason La Canfora, scouts have expressed the view that Kelce's peak performance is behind him. One anonymous scout was quoted as saying, "Kelce is done. That's over. What you saw last year, that's what he is."
These reports followed commentary on social media about Kelce's physical appearance at the start of Chiefs practice, with some users claiming he had a "dad bod" after a busy summer. The 2023 season was a challenging one for Kelce and the Chiefs, who missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014.
Kelce himself has acknowledged his role in the team's struggles last season. He stated his intention to improve his leadership qualities, aiming to be a player his teammates can rely on during difficult moments. He also indicated that he feels prepared for the upcoming season and is focused on setting a standard for his fellow players. The athlete's recent activities have included his high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift, with whom he reportedly attended a wedding ceremony in July.