Record-tying Travis Kelce hailed as ‘true leader of the Chiefs’ after Kansas City beat Washington Commanders
Patrick Mahomes described Travis Kelce as the “real leader of the Chiefs” after a banner night for the veteran tight end as the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Washington Commanders 28-7 on Monday Night Football.
Kelce caught a 10-yard touchdown pass from Mahomes late in the third quarter to tie former running back Priest Holmes for the most touchdowns in Chiefs history with 83.
It rounded out a good night for the 36-year-old who finished it with six receptions for 99 yards.
“He’s just the real leader of the Chiefs,” Mahomes said. “He’s the guy who’s been there all this time, here with Coach [Andy] Reid all the time. He helped define the culture of what it means to play for Coach Reid and for Kansas City. I was able to come in and be able to count on this guy.
Mahomes keeps historic ball for Kelce
Mahomes made sure Kelce had a memento of that feat, making sure the touchdown ball was placed safely in the hands of a Chiefs staff member.
The quarterback added: “He’s breaking records now. He’s all team oriented, so I wanted to make sure he understood that.” [ball]and hopefully we can get him another ball later in the season when he breaks the record.
Kelce considered retirement during the offseason and his contract with the Chiefs expires next year. It seems likely that this will be his last rodeo, but he’s enjoying it while it lasts.
“I just cherish these moments, man, being able to play Arrowhead,” he said. “This place is special and I love it here. In terms of historical things, I’m always looking at the next game and the next catch and trying to get better.
“I’m just a lucky old dog who can still do this thing. I put pads on like I’m 15 again. I love every moment of it.”
Mahomes impressed by relentless leaders
The win was the Chiefs’ fourth in their last five games and improved them to 5-3 for the season.
After a slow start, they found their rhythm with Mahomes throwing for 299 yards and three touchdowns.
“I think it just shows the growth we’ve had as a team,” Mahomes said. “Even though we didn’t start the way we wanted to on offense, it showed that we can fight through adversity and play the style of football we want to play.”
Washington fell to 3-5 and needs wins quickly if it wants to repeat its playoff run from last season.
