In a surprising statement during a recent press conference, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin highlighted an often-overlooked aspect of Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce’s game. While Kelce is widely praised for his athleticism, route-running, and ability to make game-changing plays, Tomlin believes the All-Pro tight end is underappreciated for his football intelligence.
“Travis Kelce is not just a phenomenal athlete; he’s one of the smartest players in the game,” Tomlin said. “People talk about his catches and touchdowns, but what stands out to me is his ability to read defenses and adjust on the fly. He’s essentially a quarterback at the tight end position.”
Tomlin’s comments come ahead of the Steelers’ matchup against the Chiefs, where defending Kelce will be a top priority for Pittsburgh’s defense. The coach elaborated on how Kelce’s mental acuity creates unique challenges for opposing teams. “He’s always a step ahead. He’ll find the soft spots in coverage, communicate with Mahomes at the line, and make adjustments mid-route. That’s not something you see every day, even in this league.”
Kelce, who has been instrumental in the Chiefs’ sustained success over the years, is no stranger to breaking records and receiving accolades. However, much of the focus tends to center on his physical abilities and highlight-reel plays. Tomlin’s remarks shine a light on the cerebral side of Kelce’s game, which is often overshadowed by his athletic prowess.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has also spoken about Kelce’s intelligence in the past, describing him as a player who “sees the game like a coach.” Reid’s sentiment aligns with Tomlin’s praise, further cementing Kelce’s reputation as one of the most complete players in the NFL.
For the Steelers, containing Kelce will require more than just physical matchups. Tomlin hinted that the team is preparing for Kelce’s mental game as well. “You’ve got to be disciplined. He’ll exploit any lapse, whether it’s a missed assignment or a late reaction. You can’t just rely on athleticism to keep up with a player like him.”
As the Steelers gear up for their showdown with the Chiefs, Tomlin’s comments underscore the respect Kelce commands across the league. While fans may marvel at his spectacular catches and end-zone dances, it’s his unmatched football IQ that sets him apart in the eyes of one of the NFL’s most respected coaches.
