Record-equalling Travis Kelce lauded as the ‘true Chiefs’ Chief’ after Kansas City beat the Washington Commanders

Patrick Mahomes described Travis Kelce as the “true Chiefs’ Chief” after a record-equalling night for the veteran tight end as the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Washington Commanders 28-7 on Monday Night Football.

Kelce caught a 10-yard touchdown pass from Mahomes late in the third quarter to tie former running back Priest Holmes for the most TDs in Chiefs history with 83.

It completed a good night for the 36-year-old who ended it with six receptions for 99 yards.

“He’s just the true Chiefs’ Chief,” Mahomes said. “He’s the guy that’s been here through the whole thing, being here with Coach [Andy] Reid the entire time. He helped set the culture of what it means to play for Coach Reid and for Kansas City. I was able to come in and have that guy to rely on.”

Mahomes guards history-making ball for Kelce

Mahomes made sure Kelce had a memento of the accomplishment, ensuring the touchdown-scoring ball was placed safely in the hands of a Chiefs staffer.

The quarterback added: “He’s breaking all the records now. He’s all about the team, so I wanted to make sure he gets that [ball], and hopefully we can get another ball for him later in the season when he breaks the record.”

Kelce contemplated retirement in the offseason and his contract with the Chiefs expires next year. It seems likely this will be his final rodeo but he is enjoying it while it lasts.

“I just cherish these moments, man, being able to play at Arrowhead,” he said. “This place is special and I love it here. In terms of the historical stuff, I’m still looking at the next game and the next catch and trying to get better.

“I’m just the old, lucky dog still able to do this thing. I’m putting on the pads like I’m 15 years old again. I’m loving every single bit of it.”

Mahomes impressed with relentless Chiefs

The win was the Chiefs’ fourth in their last five games and moved them to 5-3 for the season.

After a sluggish start they found their groove with Mahomes throwing for 299 yards and three touchdowns.

“I think it just shows the growth we’ve had as a team,” Mahomes said. “Even though we didn’t start the way we wanted to on offense, it showed we can battle through adversity and play the brand of football we want to play.”

Washington fell to 3-5 and need some wins quickly if they are to repeat last season’s run to the playoffs.