For Pete's Sake

Travis Kelce played sparingly in Chiefs’ preseason game, but no one had more fun

Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways

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  • Travis Kelce played three snaps with no receptions in the Chiefs’ preseason opener.
  • Kelce led the team on the field and showcased strong camaraderie with teammates.
  • Despite limited play, Kelce energized sideline interactions and pregame routines.

Travis Kelce’s 13th NFL season began Saturday night with the Chiefs’ 20-17 loss to the Cardinals in the preseason opener for both teams in Glendale, Arizona.

Kelce played just three snaps and he didn’t catch a pass, but that doesn’t mean he was a quiet bystander. That’s not in Kelce’s nature. Here is a closer look at his night.

Although it was a scorcher in Phoenix, Kelce wore black when the team arrived in Arizona on Friday. And that’s what he donned Saturday when got to State Farm Stadium.

The Chiefs shared this video of Kelce walking out to the field before the game because who knows if this is the final season of his career.

When it was time for the Chiefs to take the field, who better to lead the team? It was Kelce, and he wasn’t walking this time. He jogged out with quarterback Patrick Mahomes close behind.

X user Craig McMullen shared video.

During the pregame warmups, Kelce worked on his ... footwork. Sort of. He and defensive tackle Chris Jones did a little dance.

Kelce and Mahomes are great friends on and off the field, and they were spotted laughing with wide receiver Xavier Jones.

Mahomes and Kelce spent time chatting on the sideline, too. It appeared they were having a long conversation. An X user named Elizabeth was the first to share the videos.

And finally, Kelce and Jones were havng a grand time on the sideline as play continued on the field. This fun video shows them sharing laughing, and it’s clear to see their friendship come through here.

This story was originally published August 10, 2025 at 8:27 AM.

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Pete Grathoff
The Kansas City Star
From covering the World Series to the World Cup, Pete Grathoff has done a little bit of everything since joining The Kansas City Star in 1997.
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