'Nonsense!' Chiefs Ex Star Defends Kelce

The Kansas City Chiefs will look to stay undefeated in Week 5 when they take on the New Orleans Saints on Monday night.

It's the first time since 2020 that the Chiefs have begun a season 4-0. However, despite the hot start, many have brought up concerns about Kansas City's offense, especially one of their top weapons.

Through four games, tight end Travis Kelce has just 25 receptions for 158 yards and no touchdowns. That puts him on track for just 672 receiving yards in 2024, which would be the lowest season total of his career.

Despite the slow start, Saints safety Tyron Mathieu, who spent three seasons with the Chiefs, came to Kelce's defense heading into their matchup.

"I think Father Time is probably going to catch up with all of us," Mathieu said. "But to dismiss Travis as being anything other than a valuable weapon, it's just nonsense to even think about it in that way. He's still a savvy player... I've known Travis long enough and I've played against him and played with him long enough to know he will be the last person I fall asleep on Monday night."

While Kelce's totals through four games have been disappointing, he did seem to have a vintage performance in Week 4 following top receiver Rashee Rice's injury. Kelce finished the win with seven receptions for 89 yards.

Related: "Wait and See!' Chiefs Provide Rashee Rice Update

With Rice now on injured reserve, Patrick Mahomes may look to Kelce even more in the coming weeks, meaning he may not be on the decline just yet.