In a groundbreaking move, the Kansas City Chiefs have signed tight end Travis Kelce to a two-year, $34.25 million extension, making him the highest paid tight end in terms of average annual salary. Kelce expressed his gratitude for the deal in a recent episode of the New Heights podcast, which he hosts with his brother, retired Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce.

Kelce emphasized the significance of this contract not just for himself, but for the entire tight end community. He hopes that his deal will pave the way for other players to earn lucrative contracts in the future.

"I'm so excited and so thankful to this organization for getting it done, making me feel appreciated and compensated the right way," Kelce said. "On top of that, I got to move the needle for the tight end room. It's everyone else's job to go out there and keep making that tight end average annual value (AAV) go up with every single contract that's better than mine in the future."

Kelce also expressed his gratitude to the Chiefs organization for finalizing the deal early in the offseason. Unlike some players, he made it clear that he would not hold out for a better contract.

"I'm not a guy that sits out, I'm not a guy that holds out," Kelce added. "I'm a guy that loves coming into the building, and the Chiefs know that. So, for them to want, first of all, want to get this done for me, I'm extremely grateful and I'm extremely thankful for everybody involved. I love Kansas City for it."

The 34-year-old tight end has spent his entire NFL career with the Chiefs. In the 2023 season, he showcased his exceptional skills by catching 93 passes for 984 yards and scoring five touchdowns in 15 games. During the playoffs, Kelce continued to shine, recording 32 receptions for 355 yards and three touchdowns as the Chiefs secured their second consecutive Super Bowl victory and their third in the last five seasons.

With Kelce's new contract, the Chiefs have solidified their commitment to the talented tight end, ensuring his presence and contribution to the team's success for the foreseeable future.