Travis Kelce continues to face questions about his age and fitness heading into his 14th NFL season, but one former New England Patriots champion isn’t buying the criticism.
Jason McCourty believes the Kansas City Chiefs tight end still has plenty left in the tank and made that clear after watching Kelce turn heads during training camp.
Patriots Champ Jason McCourty Backs Travis Kelce
The latest debate started after a practice clip showed Kelce getting the better of Alohi Gilman during one-on-one drills.
The veteran tight end’s footwork and change of direction quickly caught the attention of McCourty.
“This is your uncle at the local YMCA who people are doubting but he still has a mean pump fake and footwork is elite!!! Kelce still has it and never lost it!” McCourty remarked.
McCourty’s reaction comes as some fans and analysts continue to question whether Kelce can return to his previous level of production.
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Why Are Fans Questioning Travis Kelce?
The discussion began with photos and videos of Kelce arriving at training camp. Social media users claimed the tight end looked heavier than in previous seasons, sparking another round of debate about his conditioning.
However, much of that speculation was quickly challenged. Some of the images were distorted by camera angles, while other content circulating online was misleading.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid also dismissed the concerns and said Kelce arrived at camp in good shape. “Well, he came back in good shape. I know everybody’s out there saying he’s got the dad body and all this stuff, but he looks the same to me that he’s always looked,” Reid said.
Kelce’s recent statistics have also given critics something to point toward. After years of consistently producing 1,000-yard seasons, he recorded 851 yards on 76 catches in 2025 and 823 yards on 97 receptions in 2024.
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Those numbers were down from his peak production, but they don’t necessarily tell the entire story.
Kansas City’s overall struggles also played a role. The Chiefs finished 6-11 in 2025 and missed the playoffs, putting nearly every part of the roster under additional scrutiny.
Kelce Still Has a Big Role to Play
Kelce’s increased profile away from football has also made him a constant subject of discussion. His commercial work, public appearances, and marriage to Taylor Swift have kept him in the spotlight well beyond the NFL.
Still, his teammates and coaches continue to focus on what he does between the lines.
With Patrick Mahomes healthy and the Chiefs looking to bounce back from their disappointing 2025 campaign, Kelce remains an important part of the offense.
For now, McCourty’s message is simple: don’t write off Kelce just yet.
If the veteran tight end can stay healthy and maintain the form he has shown in training camp, he could have plenty left to say in 2026.
