Travis Kelce’s return may be crucial for Patrick Mahomes

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Travis Kelce’s NFL return has more at stake than just a trip down memory lane

Kansas City is trying to rebuild stability around a season that could begin with controlled limits on the best quarterback in football. That is why Travis Kelce’s return matters more than nostalgia. Brett Veach said he knew almost immediately after the 2025 finale that Kelce was coming back, quoting the tight end’s message as, “I’m not going out like this”.

It also gave Kansas City some clarity heading into free agency, allowing them to plan accordingly. This offseason has been anything but ordinary. Patrick Mahomes is still working his way back from the torn ACL and LCL he suffered on December 14th of last year, and Andy Reid recently said Mahomes should be able to participate in some OTA activities.

Kelce remains Kansas City’s most reliable option

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While there are more exciting ways to frame it, the football logic is straightforward. When a quarterback is working back from injury, having a dependable short-range option who understands space, leverage and timing can steady an offense. Kelce still provides that for the Chiefs.

Veach pointed to Kelce’s return as something tied to Mahomes, mentioning there’s part of him that wants to see the rehab process through. That connection matters because it shows that Kansas City is intentionally surrounding Mahomes with familiar problem-solvers until his recovery finishes.

Kansas City will have to adjust their early needs

The PUP rules are going to have a say in how much Mahomes is able to do early on. Even if things go well, the team will likely need the rest of the offence to carry a bit more of the load while he gets back up to speed.