The Kansas City Chiefs made the first big splash of the offseason after trading quarterback Alex Smith to the Washington Redskins in exchange for cornerback Kendall Fuller and a third-round pick. Needless to say, Chiefs teammates were not happy about the news.
Most were quick to post their dismay on social media. However, tight end Travis Kelce chose to just pay homage to his former teammate with a heartfelt message on Twitter:
Can’t say enough about the guy…. one of the best competitors and teammates I’ve ever been around. Someone who I owe a lot of my success to, and a guy that’s been a class act through all the ups n downs. Thanks for all the memories brotha! pic.twitter.com/OoGxBeOijY
— Travis Kelce (@tkelce) January 31, 2018
It goes without saying that both players have formed quite a bond through the years. Smith is the only quarterback Kelce has known since coming into the league. In fact, his first career touchdown came on a 20-yard pass from the veteran quarterback.
Needless to say, Smith has helped Kelce develop into arguably the best tight end in the NFL behind New England Patriots star tight end Ron Gronkowski. The two enjoyed a stellar final season together as Kelce registered a career-high 123 receptions for 1,038 yards and eight touchdowns.
It now seems as though Kelce will be taking on the role of mentor with new quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who just finished his rookie season. That said, Smith's trade is an ugly reminder of just how cold the business side of sports can be at times. Regardless, the Chiefs will continue to have high expectations as always for next season.
Meanwhile, Kelce will maintain his central role within the offense and may even see a heavier workload as a potential safety net for the young Mahomes. Either way, it is the start of a new era in Kansas City.
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