Kansas City Chiefs’ superstar tight end Travis Kelce is a living legend, widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the position. At 36 years old this fall, Kelce remains a dominant force, but the clock is ticking on his illustrious career. While he’s locked in for at least one more season, the Chiefs are quietly preparing for a future without their iconic playmaker. The question isn’t if Kelce will retire, but when—and Kansas City isn’t waiting to find out.
The Chiefs, known for their forward-thinking approach, are already scouting for Kelce’s eventual successor. The ideal candidate? A young, proven tight end who can learn from Kelce’s brilliance while preparing to take the reins. According to a recent feature by Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, one name stands out as a potential blockbuster trade target: Chicago Bears’ star tight end Cole Kmet.
Cole Kmet: The Perfect Fit for Kansas City?
At just 26 years old, Cole Kmet is entering his prime and boasts an impressive resume. Over five seasons with the Bears, Kmet has racked up 258 catches, approximately 2,600 receiving yards, and 19 touchdowns in 84 regular-season games, primarily as a starter. His size, athleticism, and reliable hands make him a tantalizing option to complement—and eventually replace—Kelce.
Knox suggests the Chiefs could be an ideal landing spot for Kmet. “The Kansas City Chiefs should consider taking a flier on Kmet if he’s available,” Knox writes. “Travis Kelce is still holding down the starting job, but he’ll turn 36 in October. The Chiefs could view Kmet as a potential successor to Kelce and a great complementary option behind Kelce, along with Noah Gray.”
Adding intrigue to the potential trade is the connection between Kmet and Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, who coached Kmet for two seasons in Chicago. Nagy’s familiarity with Kmet’s skill set could make him a seamless fit in Kansas City’s high-powered offense, led by Patrick Mahomes.
Why the Bears Might Let Kmet Go
The Bears’ new head coach, Ben Johnson, is reshaping the roster to fit his vision, which could make Kmet expendable. Despite his production, Chicago might be open to trading the tight end, especially as they focus on building around rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and a new offensive core.
However, there’s a catch: Kmet is in the midst of a four-year, $50 million contract with three seasons remaining. Any trade would require careful salary cap maneuvering, but the Chiefs have a history of pulling off bold moves to stay in Super Bowl contention. Acquiring Kmet could inject fresh energy into Kansas City’s offense while ensuring a smooth transition when Kelce eventually hangs up his cleats.
Chiefs’ Wanya Morris Also on the Trade Radar
In addition to targeting Kmet, Knox mentions Chiefs offensive lineman Wanya Morris as a potential trade candidate, landing him on the honorable mention list. While Morris has shown promise, Kansas City’s depth at the position could make him a bargaining chip in a deal for a high-profile player like Kmet.
Kelce’s Legacy Continues to Shine
As the Chiefs plan for the future, Travis Kelce’s impact on and off the field remains undeniable. On June 22, Kelce was honored with “The Outstanding Leadership Award” by the Won’t Quit Foundation, presented by the State of Ohio and the city of Cleveland. The award celebrates individuals who demonstrate extraordinary commitment, compassion, and service to their communities.
State Representative Darnell T. Brewer praised Kelce’s contributions, stating, “This award recognizes those who go above and beyond to uplift their community, inspire their peers, and make a lasting impact on the world around them.” Kelce’s leadership and charisma have cemented his status as a role model, making the search for his successor all the more critical.
A Blockbuster Trade on the Horizon?
The Chiefs are at a crossroads. With Kelce still performing at an elite level, they have a rare opportunity to groom his replacement under his mentorship. Cole Kmet, with his youth, production, and familiarity with Matt Nagy’s system, could be the missing piece in Kansas City’s quest for continued dominance. While a $50 million contract presents challenges, the Chiefs have never shied away from bold moves to keep their dynasty alive.
As the NFL trade market heats up, all eyes will be on Kansas City to see if they pull the trigger on a deal that could reshape their future. One thing is certain: the Chiefs are planning for life after Travis Kelce, and Cole Kmet could be the star to carry the torch.