NFC star aims to replicate key trait from Travis Kelce

There’s no question that when it comes to naming the top tight ends in the NFL in recent years, Travis Kelce is impossible to overlook. A cornerstone of the Kansas City Chiefs’ dynasty, he has played a pivotal role in each of the team’s championship runs. But what truly sets him apart from the rest of the league is one particular trait that continues to draw attention from his peers.

While his physical dominance and elite red zone skills have earned him recognition as one of the best at his position, there’s something beyond pure athleticism that elevates Kelce even further: his unmatched connection with Patrick Mahomes.

Many around the league believe that the human element can be just as crucial as physical talent when it comes to elevating a player’s performance. That’s why numerous tight ends across the NFL are now striving to build that same kind of synergy with their quarterbacks — hoping to unlock the full potential of their games.

Kelce, the role model for Trey McBride

Trey McBride, the Arizona Cardinals standout who at one point held the title of the highest-paid tight end in the league, made an appearance at Tight End University and sat down with ESPN’s Laura Rutledge and Dan Orlovsky. During the conversation, he opened up about what the Kelce-Mahomes connection means to him — and how he hopes to replicate that same dynamic in Arizona alongside Kyler Murray.

Trey McBride #85 of the Arizona Cardinals celebrates a touchdown with Kyler Murray #1 during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on December 28, 2024 in Inglewood, California.

“Travis, he would always give us some nuggets on being friendly to the quarterback,” he started.

see also

Chiefs announce huge extension that involves Patrick Mahomes

“He kind of plays it a little bit. Him and Mahomes have a nice connection and I kind of took that and was like, ‘Why can’t Kyler and I have that same connection?’ I feel like that’s what I tried to do. I tried to have that same relationship and that growth with Kyler and just continue to make plays for him and be that security blanket. If he needs somewhere to go with the ball, he always can throw it to me and that’s what I’m trying to do for him.”

Third on the all-time duo list

The dynamic duo of Mahomes-Kelce continues to etch their names into NFL history. With three Super Bowl victories under their belts, the Chiefs’ quarterback and tight end have formed an undeniable connection on the field. Their individual accolades are equally impressive, boasting a combined 16 Pro Bowl selections.

Mahomes and Kelce’s on-field synergy has resulted in an astonishing 72 touchdowns, including playoff scores. This remarkable tally places them third all-time among quarterback-tight end duos. They are currently chasing the legendary partnerships of Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski, who lead the pack with 105 touchdowns, and Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates, who stand at 90.