Kansas City Chiefs Linked to Tight End as Travis Kelce Replacement

The future Hall of Fame tight end has developed into not only the focal point of the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense, but quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ most reliable weapon in the biggest spots of the biggest games.

But, at age 34, having just seen his older brother announce his retirement from the Philadelphia Eagles and amid a whirlwind relationship with the world’s biggest pop star, there’s a real chance Kelce is far closer to the end of his career than even the middle of it.

Kansas City Chiefs’ Potential Travis Kelce Replacement Revealed

During the 2024 draft, the Chiefs emerged with game-altering wide receiver Xavier Worthy in the first round, and might have the opportunity to walk away from next spring’s draft with Kelce’s replacement.

That’s the exact scenario that plays out in Pro Football Focus’ “way-too-early” 2025 NFL Mock Draft.

“The Chiefs select the heir apparent to Travis Kelce,” Max Chadwick and Dalton Wasserman write, projecting Evans to Kansas City with the No. 32 overall pick. “Evans was dominant in South Bend last season before tearing his ACL, posting an 83.7 receiving grade. If he recovers well from his injury, he could compete with Colston Loveland to be the first tight end off the board.

If Evans can stay healthy in 2024, he could prove to be one of the more coveted offensive prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class.

Through his first three seasons in South Bend, Evans has already pulled down 34 receptions for 482 yards with a pair of touchdowns.

A strong upcoming season gives Evans the chance to bolster his NFL Draft resumè and perhaps the Chiefs another weapon to bolster Mahomes’ arsenal.