A new NFL season is just around the corner, bringing a fresh wave of hope for the Kansas City Chiefs as they aim to avenge their Super Bowl loss. Patrick Mahomes will have several weapons at his disposal on offense, including a former teammate of Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers.
Robert Tonyan is one of the tight ends on Andy Reid’s roster, though, of course, he faces some competition from his position teammates Travis Kelce and Noah Gray. However, the experienced player knows he must be ready to step up when called upon.
As the most significant moves of the preseason preparation unfold, Tonyan spoke with the media, appreciating the opportunity to play alongside Mahomes, finding several similarities between him and the now Steelers QB, Aaron Rodgers.
“They can each make every single throw imaginable on the field. . . Pat’s incredible. It’s great to be in the huddle and see his command. . . I’m happy to be a part of that,” he said via @goldmctNFL.
Chasing a spot on the 53-man roster
Tonyan is one of several tight ends currently on the roster during training camp, but of course, no spot is guaranteed when it comes to the final cut. He knows he’ll have to give it his all to convince the coaching staff and earn a place among the 53 players heading into Week 1.
“You’re not going to make every play,” he said, “but you’ve got to learn quick — and not make the same mistake twice. So I think I’m doing a good job — [even] if I make a full-speed mistake. Just [on the] next play, try to make a play to get the momentum going in a positive way.”
One of the privileges of this stage for him is sharing the field with Travis Kelce, one of the best tight ends in the league today.
“You see his film and you don’t really get it,” he said. “[But] then you get to ask him questions — and then you see where his mind is at. It’s awesome. Learning from him and Noah? They’re both two great players.”
Playing alongside Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes is undoubtedly one of the best quarterbacks of his generation, and for many, it’s a privilege to share a roster with him at this point in his career.
“He’s very confident,” Tonyan said of his quarterback. “He’s very positive [and] reaffirming. Even if we’re just going through little tight and drills on the side — or running backs [are] running through the pads or whatever — he’s encouraging us. That’s just the leader you want: constantly making noise, being positive and creating that energy.”