As Week 15 approaches in the NFL, the ongoing verbal sparring between media outlets and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce takes center stage. Kelce, candidly addressing criticism of the Chiefs and his teammates on his New Heights podcast, sparked controversy.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith escalated the situation on Friday, criticizing Kelce’s defense of teammates while adding fuel to the media feud. The clash between the TE and the media created heightened anticipation for the team’s performance on the field.
Stephen A. Smith blasts Travis Kelce over media criticism
On his podcast, Stephen A. Smith, known for his bold comments, strongly responded to Travis Kelce’s defense of his teammates, specifically addressing their high number of dropped passes (33 in total). Smith urged Kelce to stop defending his teammates immediately, emphasizing the need to address the issue of dropped passes.
“Respectfully, bro you need to stop that s—,” said Smith. “Your receivers have dropped 33 passes this year. 33, dog. 33.”
Smith, using strong language, pointed out the significance of the dropped passes, suggesting that even vaccine commercials with a smiling face wouldn’t hide this issue. He humorously suggested that instead of getting COVID-19 vaccine shots, Chiefs’ receivers should get velcro attached to their hands to improve their catching ability.
Smith further highlighted the lack of statistical production from wide receiver Kadarius Toney, specifically noting Toney’s performance in the second half of games—seven catches for nine yards in 13 games.
“In 13 games this season, Kadarius Toney, in second halves this season has a total of seven catches for nine yards. You know I am not making this up Travis, you know I bring receipts. … Y’all aint getting it done. The reigning, defending Super Bowl champions have a plethora of receivers who can’t catch the damn football.”
These comments by Smith were a reaction to Travis Kelce’s take on media criticism of his team. The TE, on the “New Heights” podcast, responded defiantly to media criticism of the skill position players on the Chiefs.
He acknowledged the media’s negative focus on the team’s players, used explicit language to express his frustration, and emphasized that the team’s struggles are a collective effort.
“I know there’s a lot of media pointing fingers at some of the skill players we have,” Travis said. “I say, ‘F*** that.'”
Kelce expressed confidence in the team’s abilities, stating that they have the necessary players to succeed and win championships.
“What’s real is we got guys that can play this game, and we’ve got guys that we can have success with, and win with, and win championships with,” the TE added.
Despite the recent challenges and criticism, Kelce assured the Chiefs Kingdom that the team has everything needed to overcome difficulties. However, Stephen A. Smith criticized Travis Kelce for defending teammates with a focus on dropped passes.
Chiefs’ recent wobbly form
The Kansas City Chiefs, with a current record of 8–5, have experienced a decline in form, losing four of their last six games The team faced a significant setback in a recent game against the Buffalo Bills, marked by a last-minute referee call.
This call had a substantial impact on the outcome of the game, as the Bills won. Following the last-minute referee call, both QB Patrick Mahomes and his wife expressed strong reactions.
Mistakes by the team’s wide receivers have been identified as a contributing factor to the Chiefs’ recent struggles. These errors likely affected the team’s overall performance and outcomes in recent games.
Travis Kelce has still publicly voiced support for struggling wide receivers Kadarius Toney and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. This support is notable in the face of heavy media pressure on the receivers due to the team’s recent performance.
Seeking to address criticism and regain momentum, the Chiefs are set to face the New England Patriots (3–10) in Foxborough, Massachusetts, at Gillette Stadium. It is an opportunity for the team to shut down all the criticism, and the team is working hard for that. Travis also missed his girlfriend, Taylor Swift’s birthday celebration for practice.
Let’s eagerly anticipate the outcome of the upcoming Chiefs game and see if Travis Kelce’s confidence in his team stands true.
