Travis Kelce has kicked off the 2024 season with a lackluster performance, sparking concerns among fans and analysts. ESPN's Stephen A. Smith has even linked Kelce's struggles to his recent relationship with Taylor Swift.
Travis Kelce's disappointing start to the 2024 season has raised eyebrows, with some questioning whether the Kansas City Chiefs' star tight end is showing signs of decline at age 34. Through two games, Kelce has recorded just seven targets, four catches, and 39 receiving yards.
His underwhelming performance has drawn criticism from ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, who suggested that Kelce's recent relationship with Taylor Swift may be a distraction. "We saw more of Taylor Swift than we saw of Travis Kelce yesterday, on a Sunday afternoon," Smith said on Monday's episode of "First Take." "That wasn't supposed to happen. We were supposed to see more of Travis Kelce yesterday than we saw of her."
Kelce's Slow Start Spurs Criticism, But Is Taylor Swift to Blame?
Smith's comments sparked a debate on social media, with some fans agreeing that Kelce's personal life could be affecting his on-field performance. Others defended Kelce, pointing out that he is still a valuable target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes and that the Chiefs' game plan may have simply limited his opportunities.
Chiefs' head coach Andy Reid downplayed concerns about Kelce's production, stating that teams are focusing on limiting his impact. "They did have some things that they were attempting there," Reid said Monday. "He'll get his catches. It's not that he's slowing down or any of that bit, that's not what the deal is. It's just teams focus on him."
Kelce's Slow Start Spurs Criticism, But Is Taylor Swift to Blame?
Reid's comments suggest that Kelce's lack of production is not due to a decline in his abilities but rather a shift in offensive strategy. The Chiefs have been utilizing a more balanced passing attack, with Rashee Rice, Isiah Pacheco, and Xavier Worthy all emerging as targets for Mahomes.
However, with Pacheco sidelined due to injury, the Chiefs may need Kelce to step up and assume a larger role in the offense. His experience and connection with Mahomes make him a crucial weapon, and if he can regain his early season form, the Chiefs' offense could become even more formidable.
Kelce's Slow Start Spurs Criticism, But Is Taylor Swift to Blame?
Despite his slow start, Kelce remains one of the most dangerous tight ends in the NFL. His size, strength, and athleticism make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. If he can return to his previous level of production, the Chiefs will be well-positioned to make a run at another Super Bowl.
