Chiefs predicted to replace Travis Kelce with Oregon’s TE in 2026 Draft

Travis Kelce’s uncertain future has been a hot topic among Kansas City Chiefs fans and analysts alike as the team looks ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft. Kelce, who has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offense for years, is entering the final year of his contract and negotiations for an extension have reportedly hit a snag. As a result, the Chiefs are preparing for the possibility of life without Kelce, and early projections suggest they may target versatile Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with a top-10 pick in the upcoming draft.

Sadiq, a highly touted prospect out of Oregon, has been on the Chiefs’ radar for quite some time. Known for his versatility and playmaking ability, Sadiq has drawn comparisons to Kelce himself, making him an ideal candidate to step in and fill the void left by the veteran tight end. With his combination of size, speed, and athleticism, Sadiq is seen as a perfect fit for the Chiefs’ offensive system, which relies heavily on the tight end position for both blocking and receiving.

In addition to his on-field abilities, Sadiq’s off-field demeanor and work ethic have also impressed scouts and front office personnel. Known for his tireless work ethic and leadership qualities, Sadiq is seen as a player who can come in and make an immediate impact both on and off the field. His commitment to excellence and dedication to his craft have earned him the respect of his coaches and teammates, making him a natural fit for a team like the Chiefs, who value character and leadership in their players.

As the draft approaches, the Chiefs’ front office is working diligently to evaluate all of their options and ensure they make the best possible selection with their top-10 pick. While Sadiq is certainly a top candidate, the team is also considering other players at the tight end position, as well as other positions of need. With a deep draft class and plenty of talented prospects available, the Chiefs are confident they will be able to find a player who can come in and contribute right away.

One of the biggest factors in the Chiefs’ decision-making process will be Kelce’s status and whether or not he ultimately signs an extension with the team. While the organization remains hopeful that a deal can be reached, they are also preparing for the possibility that Kelce may choose to test the free agent market or retire. In either scenario, the Chiefs will need to have a plan in place to address the tight end position, and Sadiq is emerging as a top candidate to step in and fill that role.

In addition to his skills as a receiver, Sadiq is also a strong blocker, which is an area where the Chiefs have struggled in recent years. With their offense relying heavily on the running game and play-action passing, having a tight end who can excel in both areas is crucial to their success. Sadiq’s ability to not only catch passes but also block effectively in the run game makes him a valuable asset to any team, but especially to a team like the Chiefs who rely on their tight ends to do both.

Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy has already begun to envision how Sadiq could fit into the Chiefs’ offensive scheme, drawing up plays and packages that highlight his strengths and create mismatches against opposing defenses. With Sadiq’s ability to line up all over the field and create problems for defenses with his size and athleticism, Bieniemy sees him as a key piece in the Chiefs’ offensive puzzle moving forward.

Head coach Andy Reid, known for his innovative offensive schemes and ability to maximize the talents of his players, is also excited about the potential addition of Sadiq to the roster. Reid’s history of developing tight ends into stars in the league, such as Kelce himself, bodes well for Sadiq’s future with the team. Reid’s ability to put players in positions to succeed and his creative play-calling make him an ideal coach for a player like Sadiq, who has the potential to be a game-changer for the Chiefs.

As the draft draws near, the excitement and anticipation among Chiefs fans continue to grow as they eagerly await the team’s selection with their top-10 pick. While there are still many unknowns and variables at play, the possibility of adding a player like Sadiq to an already dynamic offense has fans dreaming of future success and championships. With Sadiq’s potential to make an immediate impact and help fill the void left by Kelce, the future looks bright for the Chiefs as they look to build on their recent success and continue their quest for a Super Bowl title.

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Source: The Times of India