Scott Clark
Apr 30, 2024 - 02:05

Kansas City Chiefs sign tight end Travis Kelce to new 2-year, $34.25 million deal

Chiefs GM Brett Veach prioritizes adjusting Travis Kelce's contract, making him the highest-paid tight end in the league.

Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach recently announced that star tight end Travis Kelce would remain the highest-paid player in his position in the league. While the financial details were not disclosed, Veach emphasized the importance of adjusting Kelce's contract as a top priority for the team.

Kelce, who is 34 years old, signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with the Chiefs in 2020, following a previous five-year deal worth $46 million in 2016. Veach expressed his admiration for Kelce, calling him one of the greatest tight ends to ever play the game and a crucial part of the organization.

Drafted by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, Kelce has already set franchise records with 11,328 receiving yards and is on the verge of surpassing Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez in career receptions and touchdowns for the team. His contributions have been instrumental in Kansas City's recent success, including back-to-back Super Bowl victories and three titles in the last five years.

Off the field, Kelce has also made a name for himself with his celebrity status, including his friendship with Taylor Swift and appearances on popular shows like "Saturday Night Live." He hosts a successful podcast with his brother and is set to host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.

Despite facing injuries and rumors of retirement, Kelce has continued to perform at a high level, showcasing his talent in key playoff games and demonstrating his love for the game. The Chiefs' decision to extend his contract aligns with their commitment to retaining key players and building for the future.

In addition to Kelce, the Chiefs have secured contract extensions for key personnel, including coach Andy Reid and team president Mark Donovan. With a strong core of players, including Patrick Mahomes and Chris Jones, locked in for the long term, the team is poised for continued success in the coming years.

Veach emphasized the importance of securing Kelce's future early on to focus on upcoming contract negotiations for younger players. Kelce's legacy with the Chiefs is secure, and the team is confident in his ability to continue making significant contributions on and off the field.