AFC West positional rankings: Travis Kelce is the best tight end
By Grant Tuttle
In our latest AFC West positional rankings post, it’s clear that Travis Kelce is the best tight end in the division by quite a bit.
The AFC West is full of great receiving targets, and the tight end Position is no exception. Historically, the division has seen the likes of all-time greats such as Tony Gonzalez, Antonio Gates, and Shannon Sharpe.
Surprisingly, each of the players mentioned on the list of the division’s best tight ends played for the same team last season. Many times tight ends will shift from team to team, however in the AFC West, the pass catchers are good enough to remain. Unfortunately, the Los Angeles Chargers have already likely lost their number one option to injury. For the Broncos, a draft pick of last season may get the nod as the number one guy on the depth chart. Things are the same, yet different at this particular position in the AFC West.
Reminder: Predictions assume that each player plays in every game of the season. Each post also assumes that all players are healthy and to allowed play.
1. Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs
Travis Kelce is one of the most dominant tight ends in the NFL, arguably the best at his position. Kelce excels in yards after the catch as he is extremely athletic for a player of his size. Leading all tight ends in receptions last season, Kelce will now look to build upon his success of two straight 1,000 yard seasons.
With the addition of Sammy Watkins, there is a question of who will get the touches in the upcoming season. However, Kelce will likely dominate the middle of the field with Tyreek Hill and Watkins lined up on the outside. We predict another big year for the Chiefs star.
2016-2017: (15 games)
83 receptions, 1,038 yards, 8 Touchdowns
Prediction:
76 receptions, 989 yards, 9 Touchdowns