Travis Kelce Remains Optimistic Despite Chiefs’ Challenges

Travis Kelce is still holding on to hope, even as the Chiefs face what he describes as “one of the most unlucky seasons in recent memory.”

After a tight 31-28 loss to the Cowboys on Thanksgiving that left the team at 6-6, the star tight end shared that while the season isn’t over, it still has potential.

“I know everyone is tired of hearing this, but honestly, we’re just a few plays away from being the top seed,” Kelce mentioned during a recent episode of the “New Heights” podcast.

“Every loss is by one score or less, and there are pivotal moments in those games that determine the outcome. It’s frustrating, especially plays like the drop against the Eagles in Week 2. What really sets us back are the penalties. Sometimes we’re only gaining three points instead of a touchdown. When you watch the film, it becomes clear. And I mean, we’re this close, it’s almost ridiculous.”

The Chiefs, who have won two out of the last three Super Bowls, have struggled lately, losing three of their four November games by a margin of seven points or fewer.

Currently outside the AFC playoff picture, Kelce noted that while the future of his 13th and 14th NFL seasons is uncertain, he believes it’s essential that Kansas City has five regular-season games left.

“We’re managing to hold teams back at critical times, but we need to score more in other moments. It’s tough to be in this situation—we’re 6-6 and fighting for our playoff lives. It’s crucial to find a way in,” he stated.

“Honestly, we still have a chance and that’s what matters most to me. We need to work with a sense of urgency, fix the mistakes that are costing us and turn those into plays that will win us games.”

Kelce’s brother, Jason, who previously played for the Eagles, expressed his sympathy, acknowledging that this season has been particularly challenging for Travis. “You guys are performing well overall. It’s just unfortunate how critical mistakes keep happening. You’ve been strong for so long, but it just didn’t come together this year,” he said.

As of now, the Chiefs’ odds of reaching the playoffs sit at 34 percent. A win against the Texans this Sunday could boost those chances to 49 percent, while a loss would drop it down to 11. The last time the Chiefs missed the playoffs was in 2014.