NFL Exec Calls Out Travis Kelce: Chiefs TE 'Getting Older. It's Noticeable on Tape'

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is 35 years old and playing in his 12th NFL season, so it wouldn't be surprising if he slowed down some as the campaign progresses.

One NFL executive believes that is exactly what is happening.

"The [Isiah] Pacheco injury is the biggest factor that not many people talk about," the executive said of the Chiefs, per Jeff Howe of The Athletic. "They obviously miss the play, but also the physicality and spark he brings the offense. Kelce is getting older. It's noticeable on tape that he's losing some (yards after the catch)."

That may be the case, but Kelce has been a durable difference-maker throughout his career and entered the 2024 campaign having played at least 15 games in each of the last 10 seasons.

As a result, he has become one of the greatest tight ends in league history with a resume that includes three Super Bowl titles, four First-Team All-Pro selections and nine Pro Bowl nods. His presence is a major reason the Chiefs came into the 2024 season looking to win a third straight Super Bowl.

Kelce got off to something of a slow start this season but has 38 catches for 335 yards and one touchdown through seven games. The Chiefs are also 7-0 and seem well on their way to another deep playoff run.

The future Hall of Famer reached the 70-yard mark in three of his last four games and scored his first touchdown of the season in Sunday's win over the Las Vegas Raiders. He has elevated his game as the team deals with injuries around him and will look to continue doing so in the second half of the season.

Even if he isn't quite the same playmaker he was at his peak.