Chiefs Land Ideal Travis Kelce Replacement in Latest Mock

Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq could be the future star tight end in Kansas City.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 9:53pm

The Kansas City Chiefs know that star tight end Travis Kelce will eventually retire, so the team is looking to the future by potentially drafting Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq as his replacement in the latest NFL mock draft. Sadiq is considered the top tight end prospect in the class and would provide a seamless transition to fill Kelce's shoes in Patrick Mahomes' offense.

Why it matters

The Chiefs have built their offense around Kelce's elite receiving skills, so finding the right long-term replacement is crucial to maintaining their championship-caliber production. Drafting Sadiq a year before Kelce's expected retirement would allow the young tight end to learn from one of the best to ever play the position.

The details

In the latest mock draft from NFL.com's Nick Shook, the Chiefs are projected to select Kenyon Sadiq, the standout tight end from the University of Oregon. Shook praised the pick, saying "Congratulations, Chiefs fans. The top tight end and best long-term replacement for Travis Kelce is still on the board when the time comes for your team to make a selection." Sadiq is considered a "freakishly athletic" prospect who would thrive in Patrick Mahomes' offense.

  • Travis Kelce is expected to retire in the next 1-2 seasons.

The players

Travis Kelce

The star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, considered a future Hall of Famer.

Kenyon Sadiq

A top tight end prospect from the University of Oregon, projected to be the ideal long-term replacement for Travis Kelce in Kansas City.

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, known for his ability to identify and draft talented players.

Patrick Mahomes

The superstar quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, who would benefit greatly from having a talented tight end like Kenyon Sadiq in his offense.

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What they’re saying

“Congratulations, Chiefs fans. The top tight end and best long-term replacement for Travis Kelce is still on the board when the time comes for your team to make a selection.”

— Nick Shook, NFL.com Writer

What’s next

The Chiefs will have the opportunity to select Kenyon Sadiq in the upcoming NFL Draft, where they can begin grooming him to eventually take over as the team's starting tight end.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' proactive approach to finding Travis Kelce's successor demonstrates their commitment to maintaining their offensive firepower even after their star tight end retires. Drafting Kenyon Sadiq would provide a seamless transition and ensure the team's championship-caliber offense remains intact for years to come.