Kansas City urged to act quickly to secure a long-term successor for Travis Kelce

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The Kansas City Chiefs are preparing for life after Travis Kelce. The superstar tight end, who has been a cornerstone of the team’s offense for nearly a decade, is entering what could be his final season in the NFL.

As he eyes retirement, speculation is building around how the Chiefs might fill the gaping hole his departure would leave. One potential solution? A bold move for Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer.

Kelce, now in his mid-thirties, has made it clear he’s coming back for one more run, but age and wear are catching up. His chemistry with Patrick Mahomes has been a defining feature of the Chiefs’ dynasty, and replacing that impact will be no small task.

As Kansas City looks to extend its championship window well into the Mahomes era, attention is turning to younger talent who could eventually carry the torch.

Mayer could thrive under Reid and Mahomes

Michael Mayer, a second-year tight end drafted by the Raiders in 2023, has been floated as a logical successor.

Despite entering the league as a highly touted prospect from Notre Dame, Mayer has struggled to carve out a significant role in Las Vegas-thanks in large part to the team’s recent decision to draft Georgia standout Brock Bowers, further crowding the tight end room.

NFL analyst Anthony Palacios of Last Word On Sports believes Mayer‘s stagnation isn’t a reflection of his ability but rather his environment. In a recent column, he pitched the idea that Kansas City should explore a trade to bring Mayer into their system.

“Kelce is looking for vengeance, but he won’t last for more than a year, so they need to start planning for the future,” Palacios wrote.

“Mahomes does well bringing out the best in a target, and even though Mayer hasn’t found his footing yet, he could change things around in his career with one of the most complete teams in the league.”

There’s logic in that argument. Andy Reid has long been known for getting the most out of his tight ends, and working with Mahomes would give Mayer a level of quarterback play he hasn’t experienced.

The Chiefs’ offensive structure, heavy on tight end involvement, could allow Mayer to flourish in ways the Raiders‘ system hasn’t.

A difficult trade, but a worthwhile gamble?

Trading within the division always comes with complications. The Raiders may be reluctant to strengthen a perennial rival, especially one as dominant as Kansas City.

But with Mayer seemingly on the outside looking in after Bowers‘ arrival, the Raiders might consider a deal if the price is right.

For the Chiefs, the move would be as much about continuity as it is about talent. Kelce‘s shoes aren’t easy to fill, but grooming a replacement in advance-especially one with Mayer’s upside-could soften the blow and keep Kansas City’s offense humming.

While a Mayer trade remains speculative, it reflects a growing urgency within the Chiefs organization.

With Kelce nearing the end of his legendary run, Kansas City must act decisively to ensure they don’t miss a beat. Whether or not Mayer ends up in red and gold, the time to plan for the future is now.

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