Andy Reid reacts with bold Chiefs move as Travis Kelce faces harsh doubts from NFL analyst
Travis Kelce was once the most feared tight end in the NFL. For years, he dominated as the Kansas City Chiefs' top pass-catching weapon. But in 2025, cracks may have appeared. At training camp, something changed and a veteran NFL analyst questioned whether defenses still fear him the way they used to.
Meanwhile, Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid made a surprising call at camp that added to the drama. Could this be Kelce's turning point?
Peter Schrager questions Travis Kelce's role in 2025
In late July 2025, during an episode of ESPN's First Take, NFL analyst Peter Schrager stated
: 'There was a point in time where Travis Kelce was considered a top‑10 feared weapon in the league, but I don't think he's considered that way anymore'.
This comment came as the Kansas City Chiefs began training camp on July 21 at Missouri Western State University in St.
Joseph, Missouri. Schrager was not saying Kelce suddenly lost his talent. Instead, he pointed to a shift in perception. Defenders may no longer see him as that unstoppable threat.
Schrager added that while Kelce still performs, the aura that once forced defenses to double‑cover him appears to be fading.
Former NFL receiver Harry Douglas disagreed on the same show, firing back:
'Play dumb games and win dumb prizes. Leave him 1‑on‑1 if you want.
'
Douglas argued Kelce's experience still makes him dangerous in big moments. The debate signals a real question among NFL insiders: is Kelce still elite, or just experienced?
Also Read:
Travis Kelce sparks NFL threat over Taylor Swift-inspired celebration now flagged as weapon gesture
Andy Reid's unusual training camp decision raises eyebrows
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, who had players report together with rookies and veterans on July 21, canceled the usual early outdoor practice session for camp. This was described as a last‑minute decision, meant to change the team's mindset rather than focus on mechanics, sending a message to veterans and rookies alike.
When asked about Kelce's condition at camp, Reid said Kelce looked in
'great shape,'
noting he had lost weight and seemed more focused than ever at age 35. Reid praised Kelce as
'phenomenal'
but did not discuss retirement plans, saying he and Kelce have not spoken about it directly.
This tension between Schrager's doubts and Reid's praise unfolded as the Chiefs try to recover from their Super Bowl 59 loss in early 2025 and prepare for their season opener, scheduled for September 5, 2025, in Brazil against the Los Angeles Chargers.
FAQs
1. Why is Travis Kelce facing criticism from NFL analysts in 2025?
NFL experts say Travis Kelce may not scare defenses like he used to, raising doubts about his role this season.
2. What bold move did Andy Reid make during Chiefs training camp?
Andy Reid canceled a major outdoor session early in camp to reset the team's focus and energy.
3. Is Travis Kelce still the top target for Patrick Mahomes in 2025?
Despite the doubts, Travis Kelce remains Mahomes' most trusted target as the Chiefs rebuild their offense.
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