In a surprising and significant move, the Kansas City Chiefs have released veteran tight end Travis Kelce, who has been a cornerstone of their offense for over a decade. Kelce, renowned for his exceptional receiving skills and leadership on the field, will now join the Chicago Bears. In a corresponding action, the Chiefs have acquired tight end Trey McBride from the Arizona Cardinals, aiming to fill the substantial void left by Kelce’s departure.
Travis Kelce’s Departure
Travis Kelce’s tenure with the Chiefs has been nothing short of legendary. Over his illustrious career, he amassed over 1,000 receptions, becoming one of the most prolific tight ends in NFL history. However, the 2024 season saw a decline in his production, recording 97 receptions for 823 yards and three touchdownsโhis lowest output in recent years. This dip in performance, coupled with the team’s strategic financial considerations, led to discussions about his future with the franchise. Reports from February 2025 indicated that releasing Kelce could save the Chiefs over $17 million in cap space, a factor that likely influenced this decision.
The Chicago Bears have secured a seasoned veteran in Kelce, whose experience and skill set are expected to provide a significant boost to their offense. At 35, Kelce brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record that could be instrumental in mentoring younger players and enhancing the Bears’ passing game.
Acquisition of Trey McBride
To address the gap left by Kelce, the Chiefs have acquired Trey McBride from the Arizona Cardinals. McBride, a promising talent, had a standout 2024 season. Notably, in Week 12 against the Seattle Seahawks, he achieved a career-high 133 receiving yards on 12 receptions. His performance throughout the season demonstrated his potential as a dynamic playmaker.