From home, Patrick Mahomes applauds Travis Kelce as the tight end makes a historic catch. Some see a legacy cemented. Others sense a final chapter approaching. And with Mahomes injured and the future uncertain, the moment hits differently than past records ever did.

Patrick Mahomes is celebrating Travis Kelce’s major milestone from home.

Patrick Mahomes Cheers on Travis Kelce from Home as the Tight End Nails History-Making Catch

The star tight end, 36, made NFL history during the Kansas City Chiefs’ road game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, Jan. 4 when he became the third tight end to reach 13,000 yards.

Kelce’s big moment came on a five-yard pass from third-string quarterback Shane Buechele, who replaced Mahomes’ backup Gardner Minshew after both QBs went down with knee injuries earlier this season.

Travis Kelce f the Kansas City Chiefs looks on prior to the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Travis Kelce on Jan. 4, 2026 in Las Vegas.Candice Ward/Getty

After Kelce made the catch, his 1,079th, Mahomes, who tore his ACL in his left knee, celebrated with a post on social media. The quarterback wrote, “13K!,” with a strong-arm emoji on X shortly after Kelce completed the achievement.

“NOW DO NOT LET HIM RETIRE,” one fan wrote in response to Mahomes, amid ongoing speculation that Kelce will retire after this season.

Another fan sweetly told Mahomes, “Such a privilege to see you two play together. I will remember it forever and so will my daughter!”

Kelce, who also surpassed Terrell Owens for the eighth-most receptions in NFL history during the Chiefs game on Sunday, told reporters he’s “focused on trying to win football games” when asked to share his thoughts on whether or not he’ll return to the NFL next season.

“I let that be a decision that I make with my family, friends, the Chiefs organization when the time comes,” he said after their loss to the Broncos on Dec. 25.

After Mahomes suffered a season-ending injury, Kelce said, “Oh man, that’s crazy,” while reacting to a question about the possibility of never playing football with his longtime quarterback again.

The tight end, who is engaged to Taylor Swift, added that he’s in a “unique time” in his life right now.

Kelce has played for the Chiefs for all 13 of his NFL seasons. Mahomes has also only played for the Chiefs since he was drafted in 2017. Together, the close friends won three Super Bowls.

Related Posts