Kenneth Walker opens up on Travis Kelce’s play and explains why Patrick Mahomes deserves recognition too (Getty Images0
Kelce, 37, returned for his 14th NFL season after considering retirement, and his early numbers suggest he still has plenty to offer. Through four games, he has caught 16 passes for 246 yards and two touchdowns, leading Kansas City in both receptions and receiving yards. Walker, who joined the Chiefs this offseason, has also praised Patrick Mahomes , pointing to the value both veterans bring as Kansas City looks to build on its 4-0 start. Kelce’s return followed a difficult 2025 season for the Chiefs, who finished 6-11 and missed the playoffs. He arrived in Kansas City after spending his first four NFL seasons with Seattle, signing a three-year, $43 million deal. The running back has made an immediate impact, entering Week 5 with 537 rushing yards, the most in the league at that point.
“Yeah, definitely,” said Walker. “They know what it takes to win, and they’re both two great competitors,” said Walker. “When I first got here, they welcomed me with open arms,” Walker said, adding that he had seen how both players wanted to help the community and keep the team together.
Kenneth Walker has seen enough of Travis Kelce up close to understand why the Kansas City Chiefs tight end remains central to the team’s plans. Walker’s praise for Travis Kelce goes beyond the tight end’s production. The running back has watched how Kelce prepares, including the work he puts into keeping his body ready for practices and games. For a player entering his 14th season, that daily commitment matters as much as his ability to find space in a defense. “I feel like that goes to show how he takes care care of his body as well. I even seen him in the off season the way he was working in the training room and making sure his body was good before practices and everything. His early production this year gives Mahomes another dependable option, while his experience offers a useful presence for a team looking to return to contention. Walker has his own reasons to appreciate the pair. Still, Walker was quick to credit the two established stars for what they bring to the team. “We’re going to need them this season. He believes that shared commitment helps create the bond needed to succeed late in the season.