For nearly a decade, Travis Kelce has been a dominant force at tight end — the beating heart of the Kansas City Chiefs ’ offensive juggernaut and a consistent nightmare for opposing defenses. But as the 2025 NFL season approaches, Kelce ’s grip on the top spot among NFL tight ends appears to be slipping.
Travis Kelce’s slide in rankings raises questions about future impact
Pro Football Focus (PFF), a respected authority in player analytics, recently ranked Kelce as the seventh-best tight end in the league — a significant drop from his usual standing at the pinnacle of the position. Nestled between T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Goedert of the Philadelphia Eagles, the ranking has ignited debates about Kelce’s longevity and whether age is beginning to take a toll on the future Hall of Famer.
PFF analyst John Kosko didn’t sugarcoat the assessment, writing, “While Kelce has been the second-most-valuable tight end over the past two seasons, per PFF WAR, 2024 represented the lowest-graded season of his career (71.7).” That stark decline is paired with troubling numbers across the board: 823 receiving yards — his lowest total since 2015 — and just 6.2 yards per target, the weakest mark of his career.
More than raw numbers, it's Kelce's diminished explosiveness that’s raising eyebrows. His ability to break tackles, stretch plays after the catch, and operate as an elite route-runner has long set him apart. But PFF notes that in 2024, Kelce dropped over half a yard per route run and lost a full yard after the catch per reception — a clear indication that the physical wear is starting to show.
Still, Kelce’s connection with Patrick Mahomes keeps him relevant. Despite his statistical dip, the quarterback-tight end duo continues to be among the most efficient in high-pressure situations. Kelce remains a trusted option on third downs and red-zone snaps, where his football IQ and chemistry with Mahomes continue to shine.
The Chiefs, chasing another Super Bowl, must now grapple with a difficult balance — relying on Kelce’s leadership while preparing for a future where the offense may need to pivot. Younger talents like George Kittle , Sam LaPorta, Brock Bowers, and Trey McBride are redefining the tight end position.
Also Read: Travis Kelce keeps it casual and covered in Miami after viral back hair moment sparks laughs across the NFL
While Kelce’s legacy is unquestioned, the 2025 season could mark the beginning of his twilight — or the launchpad for one final, resurgent campaign. Either way, all eyes will be on Arrowhead this fall.
Travis Kelce’s slide in rankings raises questions about future impact
Pro Football Focus (PFF), a respected authority in player analytics, recently ranked Kelce as the seventh-best tight end in the league — a significant drop from his usual standing at the pinnacle of the position. Nestled between T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Goedert of the Philadelphia Eagles, the ranking has ignited debates about Kelce’s longevity and whether age is beginning to take a toll on the future Hall of Famer.
Travis Kelce is outside of the Too-12 Consensus Dynasty TE Rankings
— Fantasy Football Training Camp (@FFTCamp) May 29, 2025
Thoughts?
pic.twitter.com/hOk9PKyBbC
PFF analyst John Kosko didn’t sugarcoat the assessment, writing, “While Kelce has been the second-most-valuable tight end over the past two seasons, per PFF WAR, 2024 represented the lowest-graded season of his career (71.7).” That stark decline is paired with troubling numbers across the board: 823 receiving yards — his lowest total since 2015 — and just 6.2 yards per target, the weakest mark of his career.
More than raw numbers, it's Kelce's diminished explosiveness that’s raising eyebrows. His ability to break tackles, stretch plays after the catch, and operate as an elite route-runner has long set him apart. But PFF notes that in 2024, Kelce dropped over half a yard per route run and lost a full yard after the catch per reception — a clear indication that the physical wear is starting to show.
TE rankings PPR
— Sports Stats And Takes (@Stats_n_Takes) May 23, 2025
1 Brock Bowers
2 Trey McBride
3 George Kittle
4 Tj Hockenson
5 Sam Laporta
6 Jonnu smith
7 David Njoku
8 Evan Engram
9 Tucker Kraft
10 Mark Andrews
11 Travis Kelce
12 Jake Ferguson
13 Hunter Henry
14 Mike Gesicki
15 Pat Freiermuth
Still, Kelce’s connection with Patrick Mahomes keeps him relevant. Despite his statistical dip, the quarterback-tight end duo continues to be among the most efficient in high-pressure situations. Kelce remains a trusted option on third downs and red-zone snaps, where his football IQ and chemistry with Mahomes continue to shine.
The Chiefs, chasing another Super Bowl, must now grapple with a difficult balance — relying on Kelce’s leadership while preparing for a future where the offense may need to pivot. Younger talents like George Kittle , Sam LaPorta, Brock Bowers, and Trey McBride are redefining the tight end position.
Also Read: Travis Kelce keeps it casual and covered in Miami after viral back hair moment sparks laughs across the NFL
While Kelce’s legacy is unquestioned, the 2025 season could mark the beginning of his twilight — or the launchpad for one final, resurgent campaign. Either way, all eyes will be on Arrowhead this fall.
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