Over the past ten years, NFL tight ends have increasingly sought unity to raise the position’s profile. Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce has been a key figure in building that camaraderie. Since being drafted in 2013 from Cincinnati, Kelce has established himself as one of the greatest by participating in three Super Bowls, earning seven All-Pro selections, and being named to the All-Decade Team of the 2010s. His influence on the position extends beyond statistics, as many veterans regard him as a mentor throughout their careers.
Dallas Goedert’s Growth Thanks to Kelce’s Guidance
Philadelphia Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert, a second-round pick from South Dakota State, has not compiled Kelce’s elite accolades but has emerged as a formidable player in his own right. Goedert openly credits Kelce for helping shape his approach to the game. In a recent interview, he described a pivotal shift in his mindset that Kelce inspired.
“I would wait for the defense to do something, then decide what to do after that,”
Goedert said.
“Travis always talked about being able to put the defense in a reactionary position. He taught me how to have a purpose for what I’m doing.”
—Dallas Goedert, Philadelphia Eagles Tight End
This change has turned Goedert into a challenging matchup for defenders. Last season, Pro Football Focus ranked his average of 11.8 yards per reception as the seventh highest among all tight ends.
The Lasting Impact and Future Prospects for Goedert and the Eagles
At 30 years old and in the final year of his Eagles contract, Goedert faces challenges including past injuries and the high bar set by Kelce’s career. Despite this, he views Kelce’s mentorship as a valuable asset rather than a source of envy. Their relationship reflects the growing solidarity among NFL tight ends, who often support and learn from one another.
For Goedert, adapting Kelce’s mindset offers a chance to contribute significantly to the Eagles’ pursuit of another Super Bowl title, illustrating how Kelce’s impact on NFL tight ends extends beyond his own play to influence the next generation of players.