Arrowheadlines: Travis Kelce Chooses Rest in Week 18…
In the latest Chiefs headlines for Monday, January 8, the Kansas City Star explores the reason behind Travis Kelce’s absence in the Chiefs’ 13-12 road victory over the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Despite the desire of fellow players for him to participate, Kelce, according to Chiefs coach Andy Reid, decided against playing, stating, “You know what? I don’t like the way it feels.” With the Chiefs securing the AFC’s No. 3 seed before the game, Kelce’s decision appears prudent, as there was no team-based necessity for him to be on the field.
Looking ahead to the 2024 NFL playoffs, CBS Sports ranks the Chiefs fourth among the 14 qualifying teams. While the offense, led by Andy Reid, has not displayed its usual video game-like creativity and execution in 2023, Patrick Mahomes’ prowess in playoff football and the formidable Chris Jones-led defense, ranking top-five in sacks across the league, present the Chiefs as strong contenders.
A surprising highlight from the Chiefs’ win over the Chargers, without Mahomes playing, is the momentum building for Omenihu at the right time. With a strip sack on Sunday, Omenihu has contributed to a sack in at least six consecutive games, showcasing mid-season form despite being suspended for the first six games of the year.
On the financial front, Chris Jones has reached contract incentives, earning a total of $3.25 million for hitting his 10th sack. However, he missed out on additional incentives, such as a $500,000 bonus for 15 sacks, a $2 million bonus for a Defensive Player of the Year award, and a Super Bowl win. Possibilities for further earnings, including $1 million for a first-team All-Pro berth and a Super Bowl appearance, hinge on future performance.
In off-field news, Taylor Swift, the Golden Globe-nominated artist and girlfriend of Travis Kelce, appeared to skip the Chiefs’ Sunday game against the Chargers. Fans at SoFi Stadium even held up a “Where’s Taylor” sign. The absence of both Kelce and Patrick Mahomes from the game was a precautionary measure to avoid injuries before the playoffs.
Elsewhere in the NFL, the Jaguars’ unexpected collapse raises questions about the team’s management, while Justin Jefferson’s exceptional performance for the Minnesota Vikings strengthens his position for a contract extension. Meanwhile, Bill Belichick’s record-tying number of losses after the Patriots’ defeat to the Jets adds intrigue to his coaching future.
Additionally, Puka Nacua’s rookie records with the Rams and Lions tight end Sam LaPorta’s injury are highlighted, along with the draft order for the 2024 NFL draft, where the Bears have the No. 1 pick for the second consecutive year.
In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride, the defensive player of the game is highlighted, with Chris Jones earning recognition for his disruptive performance in pursuit of a significant sack that could make him $1.25 million richer. Finally, Chiefs player Charles Omenihu criticizes the exclusive streaming of the team’s postseason game on Peacock, echoing fan frustrations and raising concerns about the NFL’s broadcasting decisions.
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