As Travis Kelce enters his final years with the Kansas City Chiefs, the front office is already taking steps to secure his replacement and prepare for the future. Despite the tight end’s iconic status with the team and his decision to continue playing for another season, there’s growing awareness that Kelce’s production has started to decline. As the Chiefs head into the 2026 season, the front office, led by GM Brett Veach, is closely eyeing potential tight end prospects—with one name standing out: Oscar Delp. 🏆
Travis Kelce: A Legend with Declining Stats 📉
After spending 13 years as the heart and soul of the Chiefs’ offense, Travis Kelce has delivered unforgettable performances, helping the team secure Super Bowls and establish dominance in the AFC. However, as with all aging athletes, his production has begun to show signs of decline.
While Kelce’s leadership and presence in the locker room remain invaluable, the cold numbers suggest that his level of play isn’t what it once was. Brett Veach and the Chiefs’ front office are fully aware of this, and with Kelce’s age and the wear and tear from years of top-level competition, the time to plan for the future is now. 🔮
The Search for the Next Tight End 🔍
Even though Kelce’s return for the 2026 season has been confirmed, and despite his prominent role in the Chiefs’ offense, Kansas City is already looking ahead to the future. With the goal of sustaining long-term success, the Chiefs’ front office is focused on finding a tight end who can eventually take over the role Kelce has so effectively filled for over a decade.
One of the most talked-about prospects is Oscar Delp, a Georgia tight end whose athleticism and strong college numbers have caught the attention of the Chiefs’ scouting department. Delp has posted 70 receptions, 854 yards, and 9 touchdowns in his college career, making him one of the top tight end prospects for the 2026 draft. His impressive Pro Day performance, where he was clocked at a 4.44 40-yard dash, has further boosted his stock, with many analysts labeling him the second-best tight end in the draft class. 🏅
Oscar Delp’s Fit with Kansas City 🤝
Standing at 6-foot-5, Delp’s height and physicality make him an intriguing fit for the Chiefs, especially when paired with Patrick Mahomes. His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches in the middle of the field would complement Mahomes’ skill set, making him a long-term investment that aligns with the Chiefs’ offensive vision. 💥
The Chiefs have already given Noah Gray and Jared Wiley opportunities, but neither player has fully convinced head coach Andy Reid that they are ready to fill Kelce’s shoes in the future. This lack of a clear backup plan has pushed the team to consider other options, and Delp appears to be the ideal candidate to eventually become Mahomes’ new favorite target. 🔄
A Bold Move Ahead in the Draft 🎯
With the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, it’s clear the Chiefs are planning to invest heavily in the tight end position. Oscar Delp’s potential fit in the Chiefs’ high-powered offense makes him a top priority. The Chiefs have already secured their star quarterback in Patrick Mahomes, and ensuring that the offensive weapons around him are in place is vital to sustaining the team’s success. Delp’s mix of size, speed, and hands could make him a perfect addition to a team that prides itself on offensive versatility.
Conclusion: A New Era for Kansas City’s Tight End Position 🏆
The Chiefs’ decision to start looking for Travis Kelce’s replacement isn’t a sign that Kelce’s time with the team is over—it’s a proactive move to ensure Kansas City remains competitive in the years to come. With the addition of Oscar Delp potentially on the horizon, the Chiefs are positioning themselves to maintain a dynamic offense after Kelce’s eventual retirement.
The search for a young, talented tight end shows that the Chiefs are not just relying on the present but are setting up for long-term success. If Delp is the answer, Kansas City could be in good hands for years to come. 💥
