Fans are calling Patrick Mahomes out for lying following what the Chiefs quarterback had to say about teammate Travis Kelce’s production so far this season.
Kelce has been targeted just 12 times in three games, making eight catches for 69 yards, and folks are beginning to get worried.
Of course, it’s still early in the season, but Travis’ dip is significant. His 8.6 yards per catch is far from his 12.5 career average or even last season’s 10.6. He’s also down from 6.2 receptions per game last season to 2.7.
Mahomes attributes this to the coverage the tight end has faced in 2024.
“Yeah, it’s crazy because teams still — the respect factor they have for Travis is just unreal,” the quarterback said after firing the Chiefs to a win over the Falcons on Sunday, per ProFootballTalk. “It’s well-deserved, but we’re calling a lot of plays for Travis, and it’s like two or three people are going to him. So, I mean, he understands.
“I think that’s the great thing about him is he wants to make an impact on the game, but he wants to win at the end of the day.”
Social media wasn’t having any of that from the Chiefs star. You can see some of the reactions to his comments below:
Patrick Mahomes Insists He Wants To Feed Travis Kelce Despite Rashee Rice Emerging As A Top Receiving Option
Travis Kelce got off to a slow start in 2023 as well but still had better stats, recording 17 receptions for 155 yards and two touchdowns.
Meanwhile, Rashee Rice has been the go-to option for Patrick Mahomes after his excellent rookie season. The wide receiver has made 24 catches for 288 yards and two scores in his first three appearances.
Mahomes, though, will still look to get the ball to the trusted veteran.
“I’m going to try to do my best to keep feeding him the ball whenever he’s there, whenever he’s open,” he continued. “But I think the more Rashee makes plays, the more we’re able to run the football, the more we can get [Xavier] Worthy involved, that’s going to open Travis up more.
“I mean, people are really emphasizing trying to take him away and it’s getting other guys open.”