Travis Kelce
Travis Kelce has firmly entrenched himself into the discussion among the greatest tight ends in league history. He’s been durable, having amassed over 80 receptions and 1,000 yards in each of the last six seasons. He’s proven to be one of the most matchup-proof offensive weapons and greatest goal line threats in the NFL. He’s remarkable after the catch, as evidenced by his dazzling overtime walk-off winner against the Chargers in December. In the playoffs, Kelce is at his finest. This postseason alone he has racked up 204 yards and 2 touchdowns on 13 receptions, as well as a touchdown pass.
Kelce began this postseason ranked 10th all-time among any pass catcher in career playoff receptions, and has quickly moved into 4th place, passing Andre Reed, Michael Irvin, Wes Welker, Hines Ward, and Reggie Wayne. He can potentially move as high as 2nd all-time (tied with Julian Edelman) if he catches 22 passes in two games. We can expect him to pass Rob Gronkowski and move into 3rd place with two receptions on Sunday vs. Bengals.
#87 went from 9 career playoff touchdown receptions to 11, (he was tied for 10th all-time, is now 4th all-time). In doing so, he passed Ward, Randy Moss, Antonio Freeman, Larry Fitzgerald, and Fred Biletnikoff, and will tie John Stallworth for 3rd all-time with his next TD reception. Kelce could potentially tie Rob Gronkowski for 2nd all-time in receiving touchdowns if he catches four TDs in two games.
In terms of playoff receiving yards, Kelce began this postseason ranked 16th in league history with 992 yards. With his 204 yards in the last two weeks, he has surpassed Steve Smith, Stallworth, Anquan Boldin, Art Monk, Drew Pearson, Paul Warfield, Biletnikoff, and Ward. He is currently ranked 8th all-time with 1,196 yards. Another 200 receiving yards this postseason would propel Kelce all the way to 3rd all-time, behind only Jerry Rice and Julian Edelman.
Needless to say, Kelce has moved from the “one of the best, among the elite” discussion and into truly rare territory with this stretch of greatness.