Chiefs' Jones Has 2-Word Response to Kelce Disses

Former GM Mike Tannenbaum advised the Chiefs to move on from Travis Kelce, but Chris Jones had a blunt response.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 5:23pm

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After former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum suggested the Kansas City Chiefs should move on from star tight end Travis Kelce, Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones responded with a succinct two-word rebuttal. Tannenbaum's assessment that Kelce's best days are behind him and the team should seek a younger, more explosive option at tight end was criticized as being flawed and missing key context about Kelce's recent production and importance to the Chiefs' offense.

Why it matters

The debate over Kelce's future with the Chiefs highlights the challenges teams face in evaluating veteran players and making difficult personnel decisions, especially when it comes to franchise cornerstones. Kelce's potential departure could have major implications for the Chiefs' offense and their ability to remain competitive in the AFC.

The details

Tannenbaum, a former NFL general manager, argued on ESPN's SportsCenter that the Chiefs should move on from the 33-year-old Kelce, stating that "his best days are behind him" and the team should "get younger, faster, more explosive at the tight-end position." However, the analysis ignored Kelce's strong 2025 season, in which he posted some of the best numbers of his career in yards per reception, yards after the catch, receiving yards, touchdown catches and receiving success rate.

  • Tannenbaum made his comments on the February 18, 2026 edition of SportsCenter.

The players

Chris Jones

The Kansas City Chiefs' star defensive tackle, known for his outspoken personality and ability to disrupt opposing offenses.

Travis Kelce

The veteran tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, a perennial Pro Bowler and future Hall of Famer who has been a cornerstone of the team's offense for over a decade.

Mike Tannenbaum

A former NFL general manager who currently serves as an analyst for ESPN, providing commentary and analysis on league personnel decisions.

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What’s next

The debate over Kelce's future with the Chiefs is likely to continue, with the team needing to evaluate whether to re-sign the veteran tight end or seek a younger replacement in the offseason.

The takeaway

This exchange highlights the complex personnel decisions teams face when it comes to aging superstars, as they must balance past production, future potential, and the overall needs of the roster. The Chiefs will have to carefully weigh Kelce's value and fit within their offense as they determine the best path forward for the franchise.