For years, Travis Kelce has been the beating heart of the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense, a cornerstone player whose remarkable skillset has redefined the tight end position in the NFL. As the game continues to evolve, Kelce has firmly planted himself as one of the best to ever play the position, combining speed, strength, and an uncanny ability to make game-changing plays when it matters most. His influence on the Chiefs’ offense cannot be overstated, and it’s impossible to imagine Kansas City’s success without him.
But time waits for no one. With Kelce now in his 14th NFL season, the question everyone has been quietly asking is: What happens when he finally steps away from the game? The Chiefs’ front office knows that the future of the offense needs to be secured now, while Kelce is still performing at an elite level. The conversation about his long-term successor has already begun, and the pressure to find someone worthy of following in his monumental footsteps is on.
As much as Kansas City has relied on Kelce’s dominance, the Chiefs are now at a crossroads. There’s no denying that the team is experiencing the natural transition from one era to the next. Fortunately, Kansas City is well-positioned to make a move for the future, thanks to its strategic planning and a strong draft class that offers some intriguing prospects for the next tight end of the Chiefs.
Travis Kelce: The Irreplaceable Force
It’s easy to see why the Chiefs’ offense has revolved around Kelce for so long. His ability to dominate the middle of the field and consistently deliver big plays has made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. Kelce has become a safety net for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, offering a reliable target at virtually every level of the field. In fact, Mahomes and Kelce’s chemistry is often described as one of the best in NFL history, a bond forged over years of practice and shared success.
In 2025, Kelce still proved he had plenty left in the tank, accumulating 851 receiving yards and five touchdowns. However, the fact that retirement had been considered earlier in the offseason adds a level of urgency to the situation. Kansas City’s front office is aware that it must begin planning for life without Kelce, even as he continues to play at a high level.
This is not just about replacing a tight end. This is about replacing an icon, a player who has been instrumental in shaping the team’s identity. The successor to Kelce will need to carry the weight of high expectations, both on the field and in terms of leadership. It’s a daunting task, but one that the Chiefs are ready to tackle head-on.
The Search for the Next Big Thing
Kansas City’s search for Kelce’s successor isn’t just an offseason rumor – it’s a calculated, ongoing process that’s been quietly unfolding. There’s no rush, of course, as Kelce is still playing at a top-tier level, but the Chiefs have the luxury of looking ahead without needing to immediately replace him.
The 2026 NFL draft presents a strong opportunity to find that future star, and the Chiefs’ front office is already eyeing several players who could fill the void left by Kelce. Let’s take a look at the four most intriguing candidates who could be the next great tight end for Kansas City.
1. Kenyon Sadiq (Oregon)
Among the top names being discussed, Kenyon Sadiq has rapidly emerged as a favorite. With a stellar performance at the 2025 NFL combine, where he posted a remarkable 4.39-second 40-yard dash, Sadiq has shown that he has the athleticism to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
At Oregon, Sadiq caught the attention of scouts across the league with his remarkable blend of size, speed, and playmaking ability. He led all FBS tight ends with eight touchdowns in 2025, making him one of the most dangerous red zone threats in the draft. His ability to stretch the field vertically and create mismatches with defenders makes him a perfect fit for Kansas City’s high-powered offense.
What has fueled the speculation surrounding Sadiq even more is Kansas City’s own social media activity. The Chiefs have been highlighting his college tape, adding fuel to the fire that the team has their eye on the Oregon standout.
NFL analyst Adam Rank suggested that this could be a move the Chiefs make even with Kelce still under contract, saying, “Tight end might seem weird… but let’s be serious: He’s not playing out that deal.” The Chiefs have always been forward-thinking, and Sadiq’s explosive potential could be the perfect long-term investment.
2. Eli Stowers (Vanderbilt)
Another name making waves is Eli Stowers from Vanderbilt. A former quarterback turned tight end, Stowers brings a unique skill set to the table that mirrors the unconventional journey that Kelce himself took. The transformation from quarterback to tight end has given Stowers a deep understanding of the game and the intelligence to make quick decisions on the fly.
Stowers had a breakout season in 2025, earning the prestigious Mackey Award as the best tight end in college football. His ability to read defenses and make plays after the catch has elevated his stock as a potential Day 2 pick in the upcoming draft. Like Kelce, Stowers is adaptable and can fit into different roles within an offense, making him a compelling prospect for Kansas City.
3. Sam Roush (Stanford)
For a team looking to get more physical at the tight end position, Sam Roush from Stanford could be a perfect fit. Standing at 6’6” and 260 pounds, Roush is a towering presence who excels as a blocker and a dominant force in the run game. His physicality would add a new dimension to Kansas City’s offense, giving Mahomes more time in the pocket while also providing a strong presence in the red zone.
Roush may not have the same explosive traits as Sadiq or Stowers, but his toughness and ability to move defenders off the ball make him a valuable asset for a Chiefs team looking to improve its offensive balance. His combination of size and power would be a huge asset, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
4. Oscar Delp (Georgia)
Last but certainly not least is Oscar Delp from Georgia. Delp is a well-rounded tight end with a high ceiling. His athletic upside and ability to both block and catch make him an intriguing developmental prospect for Kansas City. Delp could be the type of player who thrives with time, and Kansas City’s offensive scheme could be the perfect environment for him to grow.
Delp has the ability to stretch the field vertically and make crucial plays down the seam, a trait that would be a valuable addition to Mahomes’ arsenal. His versatility in both the run and pass game make him an appealing choice for a team looking to bolster its tight end depth while protecting Mahomes.
The Future Is Now
As Kansas City looks to the future, the team faces a unique situation. With Kelce still performing at an elite level, there’s no immediate need to find a successor, but the team’s ability to draft wisely and prepare for the future without sacrificing the present is key to maintaining their status as one of the NFL’s most successful franchises.
For the Chiefs, the decision to find Kelce’s successor could be one of the most important moves they make in the years to come. The team’s dynasty hinges on the ability to stay ahead of the curve, and securing the next great tight end will be a critical part of their long-term success.
The future of the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense may well depend on the choice they make in the 2026 NFL draft. Whether it’s Sadiq’s explosiveness, Stowers’ versatility, or a later-round prospect who develops over time, the Chiefs are already looking ahead to the next chapter. And while the legendary Travis Kelce remains the focal point of the offense today, the search for his successor is already well underway.
Who will emerge as the next great tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – the future of this iconic offense is in good hands.
