Travis Kelce is preparing for the Kansas City Chiefs’ upcoming mandatory minicamp with a remarkable physical transformation, having lost approximately 25 pounds during the offseason. This development was confirmed ahead of the minicamp next week, signaling a focused effort by Kelce to improve his conditioning after a heavier 2024 season.
Kelce, a key figure for the Chiefs, was absent from the final week of the team‘s organized team activities (OTAs), but ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler shared encouraging news regarding the tight end’s progress on SportsCenter.
Details on Kelce’s Offseason Weight Loss and Career Outlook
According to Fowler, Kelce disclosed to close contacts that he slimmed down by about 25 pounds during the offseason. This decision came after playing the previous year at a heavier weight than usual. Fowler noted,
“He played a little heavier in 2024. It was sort of a thing; he vowed to change it, and he has. As we talked about before, this could be the last dance for him in his mid-30s, still a productive player.”
The 2025 NFL season carries particular significance for Kelce as it marks the final year of his current contract. Speculation surrounded his future, with discussions about a possible retirement before he decided to commit to the upcoming season. Kelce’s future performance remains a focal point for both fans and teammates.
Wide receiver Rashee Rice, one of Kelce’s teammates, shared his personal perspective while hosting a football camp in Houston, expressing concern about Kelce’s status:
“Me getting hurt last year was kind of a wake-up call. I really wanted him to come back. You start to realize the guys you get to play with once it’s all over, so I’m just trying to live in the moment right now, accept that, and really enjoy his presence on the team.”
Concerns About Kelce’s Performance and Possible Playing Time Changes
Travis Kelce’s 2024 season featured some of the lowest statistics of his career, with career lows in both receiving yards (823) and touchdowns (three), excluding his injury-shortened debut season in 2013. These numbers have sparked doubts about his ability to maintain his elite status as he ages.
David Scott from The Sun US expressed skepticism about Kelce’s future effectiveness, stating,
“If he regressed so much at 35 years old, what indication is there that he will be any better at 36 years old?”
This perspective highlights the challenges aging players face in sustaining peak performance.
Scott also suggested that Kelce may lose his starting role to fellow tight end Noah Gray, who showed promising statistics during the 2024 season. Gray posted career-highs in multiple categories, including 437 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Scott remarked,
“Noah Gray is lurking behind Kelce on the depth chart, and has proven he can be a competent player in the Chiefs offense. He had 437 yards and five touchdowns in the 2024 season, and probably becomes the Chiefs’ starting tight end by the end of 2025 if Kelce underperforms.”
Upcoming Season and Team Outlook
The Kansas City Chiefs are set to open their 2025 season on September 5 with a game against the Los Angeles Chargers in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This international venue adds an unusual start to what could be a pivotal year for Kelce and the Chiefs.
Kelce’s major weight loss before Chiefs minicamp comes at a critical juncture, potentially impacting his longevity and effectiveness on the field. The team, the fans, and Kelce himself will closely watch how this physical change influences his performance as he seeks to extend his productive NFL career.