Speaking of Kelce, the future Hall of Famer has his skeptics entering Year 13 after the poorest statistical season of his career in 2024, and some doubt his ability to bounce back and be “that” guy again.

ESPN’s Seth Wickersham on NFL teams run as mom-and-pop shopsESPN’s Seth Wickersham on NFL teams run as mom-and-pop shops

But if you are expecting a 1,000-yard+ season and double-digit touchdowns this year, general manager Brett Veach has a major announcement for you.

“His numbers won’t be the same,” Veach said via ESPN. “You have to acknowledge … that he’s older. He’s not 28 years old. But everything runs more efficiently when that guy is out there. He’s still going to demand the attention or at least the occasional eyes of primary defenders just because of his name and his legacy.”

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, center, quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce

© Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK

With the thought that this could be Kelce’s last season, the Chiefs could shift away from 87 being the go-to guy, instead leaning on Rice, Worthy, Brown, and backup tight end Noah Gray to prepare for Travis’ retirement (whenever that comes).

That is good in theory, but when push comes to shove on the field, late in games, Patrick Mahomes will look Kelce’s way, as he has done so often in his career.

So yes, Kelce will still have a role in the offense, but it won’t be to the magnitude many expect.

Part of that is his age; the other is the Chiefs want to see who can step up when Travis eventually hangs up the cleats.

So yeah, temper your expectations.