When the Kansas City Chiefs turn the page to 2026, they might do so without Travis Kelce, who could retire.
Kelce has yet to make a decision on his future, at least publicly, but while speaking about Patrick Mahomes and his injury during a recent episode of his podcast, the Chiefs tight end set off alarm bells by saying "the Chiefs" rather than "we" when talking about Mahomes' return from injury.
"He's going to make sure that he comes back stronger than ever, and hopefully the Chiefs can get him back as soon as possible," Kelce said.
Kelce isn't the same player he once was, but he's still a top target in Kansas City's offense and losing him will be a negative for Mahomes and Co.
But Charlie Campbell of Walter Football already has Kelce's replacement pegged in his latest mock draft. Campbell predicts the Chiefs will take Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
Thus far in 2025, Sadiq has 40 catches for 490 yards and eight touchdowns. Sadiq flashed in 2024 with 24 catches for 308 yards and two touchdowns. The 6-foot-3, 245-pound Sadiq is a dangerous receiver with upside. Team sources are raving about Sadiq as a talent and mismatch weapon. Even though he is not a big tight end, Sadiq blocks hard and really battles defenders. He is fast, athletic, an excellent route-runner, has good hands, and can pick up yards after the catch. He looks like a real weapon for the NFL.
Saqiq's stats certainly don't jump off the page at you, but his physical traits do.
The 6-foot-3, 245-pound prospect is electric with the ball in his hands thanks to his elite athleticism and speed, which also enables him to line up in multiple spots along the formation.
He's also capable of picking up yards after the catch with his strength, which aids him in being a plus blocker before stepping into the NFL.
The chances of the Chiefs drafting Sadiq will drop if Kelce returns, but we don't think those chances will be zero.
After all, Kansas City could start planning for Kelce's inevitable retirement if he does stick around for another year, and the team needs more weapons for its quarterback.
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