TRAVIS KELCE RECALLS EMOTIONAL MOMENT WITH ROB CHUDZINSKI BEFORE NFL DRAFT

Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce is known for his high energy and passionate play on the field, but his emotional journey into the NFL was not without its bumps. Recently, Kelce opened up about a powerful moment before the 2013 NFL Draft, one that would change the course of his career forever.

In an interview with former Cleveland Browns head coach Rob Chudzinski, Kelce, who had grown up a die-hard Browns fan, poured out his heart in a way that surprised the coach. “I cried in Chud’s office and said, ‘I will fucking die for this city!’” Kelce recalled. “I literally was in tears. I said, ‘I’m sorry I’m getting emotional. I grew up down the street. I would fucking do anything to play for the Cleveland Browns.’ He looked at me like I was insane.”

Unfortunately for Kelce, the Browns did not select him in the draft. Neither did any other team, until the Kansas City Chiefs took a chance on him in the third round. It was a move that would turn out to be a game-changer—not just for Kelce but for the Chiefs as well.

Kelce went on to become a key player in the Chiefs' offense, creating an unmatched chemistry with future MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The pair formed one of the most dynamic duos in the league, with Kelce’s incredible catches and celebrations energizing fans. “When I was younger in the league,” Kelce says, “I used to have some of the older players come up to me and be like, ‘Man, you celebrate after every fucking catch!’ I’m like, ‘I’m in the NFL, dude! I love this shit!’”

That passion has paid off in the form of three Super Bowl championships and numerous records. While the Browns passed on him, Kelce’s perseverance led to one of the most successful careers of any tight end in NFL history.

The Chiefs selected Kelce 63rd overall in the 2013 draft, and since then, he’s become one of the most beloved players in Kansas City. Meanwhile, the Browns have only made two playoff appearances since that fateful draft. While the two teams won’t meet in the regular season in 2025, the possibility of a postseason matchup remains—and fans would no doubt love to see Kelce face his old would-be team in a high-stakes game.

Travis Kelce’s journey from heartbreak to triumph is a testament to his passion, determination, and love for the game. It’s clear that his emotional connection to football—and the city he represents—is part of what makes him one of the best in the NFL today.