Patrick Mahomes Finally Explained Why He Isn’t Targeting Travis Kelce… | HO

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce have been one of the NFL’s most dynamic and productive duos over the past several seasons. Their connection has helped the Chiefs win multiple AFC Championships and a couple of Super Bowls. Kelce, with his ability to consistently get open and make big plays, has earned his place as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. Meanwhile, Mahomes is widely regarded as the league’s most talented quarterback. However, during the 2023 season, a noticeable shift in their offensive game plan has fans and analysts alike questioning why Kelce isn’t getting targeted as frequently as he used to.

In a recent discussion, Mahomes offered an explanation for why Kelce hasn’t been as involved in the passing game this season. He described the intense defensive attention Kelce has been receiving. In a play highlighted by Mahomes, he pointed out how all three defenders—linebacker and both safeties—focused entirely on Kelce, leaving other receivers wide open. Kelce has essentially become a magnet for defenders, which is both a testament to his skill and a dilemma for opposing teams. Mahomes noted that because defenses are so preoccupied with Kelce, it’s opening up opportunities for other players to shine.

“Teams are double, sometimes triple-teaming Travis,” Mahomes explained. “They know what kind of threat he is, and they’re willing to let other guys beat them. That’s opened up a lot for our other receivers.”

This shift in defensive strategy isn’t new. For years, teams have tried different methods to neutralize Kelce’s impact on games, but his superior route running, athleticism, and chemistry with Mahomes have made him almost impossible to stop. This year, though, it seems defenses have adjusted, opting to sacrifice attention elsewhere if it means keeping Kelce from burning them down the middle.

Although the Chiefs have managed to start the season strong, it’s clear their offense hasn’t quite found the same rhythm they’ve enjoyed in previous years. Mahomes has already thrown more interceptions than usual, and the team’s overall offensive output seems a bit out of sync. The offensive line, particularly the left tackle position, has been a source of inconsistency, and they’ve yet to establish a reliable run game, further complicating their attack.

Despite these challenges, the Chiefs continue to win, thanks largely to their defense and Mahomes’ ability to find open receivers when Kelce is heavily covered. In a recent play, Mahomes found backup tight end Noah Gray wide open in the middle of the field for a 13-yard gain while all the defenders converged on Kelce. These types of plays illustrate how defenses are almost entirely focused on stopping the Chiefs’ biggest weapon, leaving room for others to contribute.

Kelce himself has acknowledged his frustration with his decreased involvement in the offense. On the New Heights podcast, co-hosted with his brother Jason Kelce, Travis candidly admitted that he’s “playing like crap,” even though the Chiefs are still winning games. Kelce isn’t used to seeing his production drop, and images of him looking visibly frustrated on the sidelines have sparked conversations among fans about his role.

Yet, Kelce also recognizes the value in drawing defenders away from his teammates. By drawing multiple defenders, Kelce is effectively acting as a decoy, creating opportunities for others. Mahomes highlighted this in his breakdown, explaining that the Chiefs’ other offensive weapons, including receivers like Rashee Rice and Noah Gray, have benefited from the extra attention on Kelce.

“Rashid’s going to have 2,000 yards if teams don’t adjust,” Mahomes joked, underscoring the idea that defenses are so keyed in on Kelce that they’re willing to give up chunks of yardage to other players. While it’s certainly frustrating for Kelce, who prides himself on being a key playmaker, his unselfishness in accepting this role has allowed the team to maintain its success.

Though Mahomes and Kelce haven’t quite hit their stride yet this season, it’s clear that the Chiefs’ offensive struggles aren’t solely due to the duo’s performance. The offensive line has had its issues, and losing key players in the run game, like running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, has made it difficult for Kansas City to find balance. Additionally, the departure of wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster in the offseason left a void in the receiving corps that the Chiefs are still trying to fill.

Mahomes, by his own admission, hasn’t played up to his usual standards either. Despite a solid 3-0 start, he’s already thrown five touchdowns and four interceptions, a stat line that is uncharacteristically pedestrian for him. The Chiefs’ offense, known for its explosive plays and high-scoring drives, has yet to fully click this season.

However, the Chiefs are winning with defense and game management, a change from their usual method of simply outscoring opponents. Mahomes and Kelce are likely aware that it’s only a matter of time before the offense finds its rhythm again. As Mahomes mentioned, once defenses start paying attention to players like Gray and Rice, Kelce could see more single coverage, leading to the kind of explosive games we’re used to seeing from him.

Many analysts believe that Kelce is primed for a breakout game, perhaps as soon as this weekend. With opposing defenses focusing so heavily on stopping him, there’s a chance they may begin to overcompensate, leaving more opportunities for him to make big plays. If the Chiefs’ other weapons continue to capitalize on their open looks, defenses will be forced to adjust, and Kelce could return to being the unstoppable force that we’ve come to expect.

Kelce’s value to the team extends beyond just his stats. Even when he isn’t catching passes, his presence alone forces defenses to account for him, which opens up the entire playbook for Mahomes. And while he may not be happy with his current numbers, the Chiefs are still winning, and Kelce remains a crucial part of that success.

As the season progresses, expect to see Mahomes and Kelce find their groove once again. With both players acknowledging their early-season struggles, it’s only a matter of time before they return to the dominant form that has made them one of the most dangerous duos in NFL history.

In the end, Mahomes’ explanation for why he isn’t targeting Kelce as much makes sense given the defensive schemes they’re facing. Still, as both players adjust and find ways to beat the extra coverage, it’s safe to say that Travis Kelce isn’t done making an impact just yet.