The regular season has come to an end and the Kansas City Chiefs are still waiting for a decision from their star tight end, Travis Kelce. With retirement rumors swirling around Kelce, the Chiefs are not taking any chances and have signed another tight end to a reserve deal. This move by head coach Andy Reid shows that the team is preparing for all possibilities and is determined to maintain their dominance in the upcoming season.
Kelce, who will turn 32 in October, has been an integral part of the Chiefs’ offense since he was drafted in 2013. He has consistently been one of the top tight ends in the league, breaking records and leading the Chiefs to multiple playoff appearances. However, after a grueling season and a tough loss in the Super Bowl, Kelce has been contemplating retirement.
The uncertainty surrounding Kelce’s future has left the Chiefs in a tough spot. They have to plan for the upcoming season without knowing if their star tight end will be on the field or not. This is where the signing of the new tight end, Evan Baylis, comes into play. Baylis, who has been with the Chiefs since 2019, has been signed to a reserve/future contract, giving the team some much-needed depth at the tight end position.
Baylis may not have the same level of experience and talent as Kelce, but he has shown potential in his limited playing time. In the 2020 season, he appeared in five games for the Chiefs, catching two passes for 27 yards. He also played a crucial role on special teams, showcasing his versatility and willingness to contribute in any way possible. With more playing time and the guidance of Kelce, Baylis has the potential to become a valuable asset for the Chiefs.
While the signing of Baylis may not be as flashy as a big free-agent acquisition, it shows the Chiefs’ commitment to building a strong and well-rounded team. The team is not solely relying on Kelce and is preparing for all scenarios. This is a testament to the leadership of head coach Andy Reid, who has always been known for his strategic planning and ability to adapt to any situation.
Moreover, the signing of Baylis also sends a message to Kelce that the team is fully supportive of his decision, whatever it may be. The Chiefs understand that Kelce has given his all to the team and has earned the right to take his time in making such an important decision. They are not pressuring him or trying to sway him in any way. Instead, they are showing their trust and respect for him by preparing for all possibilities.
In the end, whether Kelce decides to retire or not, the Chiefs are in a win-win situation. If Kelce decides to hang up his cleats, they have a capable replacement in Baylis. And if Kelce decides to return for another season, the team will have two talented tight ends to lead their offense. This signing also gives the Chiefs some flexibility in the upcoming NFL draft, as they can focus on other positions knowing that they have depth at the tight end position.
In conclusion, the signing of Evan Baylis by the Kansas City Chiefs is a smart and strategic move. It shows the team’s commitment to building a strong and well-rounded roster, and their support for Travis Kelce in his decision-making process. With the addition of Baylis, the Chiefs are ready to face any challenge that comes their way and continue their quest for another Super Bowl title.