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Chiefs Reportedly Land Kelce Replacement in ESPN Mock Draft
The 37-year-old tight end is returning to Kansas City, but the team may need to find his long-term successor.
Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:59pm
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The Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly landed a potential replacement for veteran tight end Travis Kelce in a new ESPN mock draft. Kelce, who turns 37 next season, recently signed a new contract with the Chiefs that could pay him up to $57 million, but is likely just a one-year, $12 million deal with $3 million in incentives. The Chiefs will need to find a long-term successor for the aging star, and ESPN's latest projection has them selecting a highly explosive and versatile tight end prospect to fill that role.
Why it matters
Kelce has been a key part of the Chiefs' offense for years, but at 37 years old, the team will need to start planning for the future at the tight end position. Finding the right replacement to complement quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs' high-powered passing attack will be crucial for the team's continued success.
The details
According to the ESPN mock draft, the Chiefs are projected to select a talented young tight end prospect who could develop into Kelce's long-term successor. This player is described as being 'as explosive and versatile' as they come, suggesting he could provide a similar dynamic playmaking ability at the position.
- Kelce recently signed a new contract with the Chiefs that could pay him up to $57 million.
- Kelce is set to turn 37 years old next season.
The players
Travis Kelce
A veteran tight end who has been a key part of the Kansas City Chiefs' offense for years.
Patrick Mahomes
The starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, who will need to continue developing chemistry with the team's tight end group.
The takeaway
The Chiefs' selection of a young, dynamic tight end prospect in the upcoming draft could be a key move to ensure the team's passing attack remains potent even as Kelce approaches the end of his career. Finding the right player to develop behind the veteran star will be crucial for the Chiefs' continued success.
