Patrick Mahomes reveals expectations from Chiefs TE after 2024 Super Bowl loss

After the Kansas City Chiefs’ crushing Super Bowl loss to the Eagles earlier this year, quarterback Patrick Mahomes is looking ahead. He expects more than just stats from Travis Kelce this season.

Following Wednesday’s mandatory minicamp, Mahomes described his faith in Travis Kelce’s on-field production.

"I expect Travis to be Travis man," Mahomes said (Timestamp: 0:15)

Patrick Mahomes also highlights the tight end’s significance as a daily presence inside the building.

"I think more than anything it's the leadership that he brings to the building every single day and how he leads by example and how he leads vocally. It's a big impact on our football team, and so I expect him to play at a high level, and then be a even better leader," He continues.

The Chiefs are entering a season defined by redemption, chasing a third title in four years after falling short in February. Kelce, now 35, is returning for his 13th NFL season amid growing speculation about how much longer he’ll play. But Mahomes made it clear.

"Obviously the play on the field is going to be high. He's going to go out there with the mentality that we're trying to win the Super Bowl this year, because we fell short last year," Mahomes said.

Patrick Mahomes didn't pressure Travis Kelce on retirement choice

NFL: Super Bowl LIX-Kansas City Chiefs at Philadelphia Eagles - Source: Imagn

Patrick Mahomes also shared that he had intentionally stepped back during Travis Kelce’s offseason decision-making. Rather than lobbying for a return, he allowed his longtime teammate the space to reflect, according to the Associated Press.

Meanwhile, Kelce expressed that the fire to compete hadn’t left him. He said his motivation came from unfinished business and a hunger to chase another championship.

"It wasn't a very tough decision for me," Kelce told reporters, according to People magazine. "I know I'm getting older, but at the same time I still feel like I got a lot that I can prove in this league. It really wasn't that hard of a decision for me."

Kansas City will return to Missouri Western State University in July to begin training camp before opening the regular season against Denver in September.