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Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce became emotional as he opened up about the "hard reality" of missing out on the Vince Lombardi Trophy following his team’s defeat in Super Bowl 59.
In a new episode of the "New Heights" podcast, co-hosted with his brother Jason Kelce, the 35-year-old discussed the Chiefs' disappointing performance against the Philadelphia Eagles, who claimed victory with a 40-22 win.
Kelce Reflects on Costly Mistakes
"Just wasn’t our day," Kelce admitted. "Couldn’t find a lick of momentum. I’m kicking myself for some of the tiny, tiny decisions I made on the field."
As a veteran player with 12 years in the league, Kelce took personal responsibility for his role in the team’s struggles.
"I wasn’t the best that I could be in motivating my guys and keeping my guys calm, cool, and collected. I put a lot of that on myself, you know, as the guy that’s been in the building for 12 years and seen a lot of football and seen a situation just like this, in the Super Bowl."
His voice wavered as he acknowledged the painful reality of the loss. "It’s a tough pill to swallow. It’s a hard reality, man."
Apology to Chiefs Kingdom
Although Kelce did not address ongoing retirement rumors, he expressed deep regret for the way the season ended.
"I love my teammates, I love my coaches. Chiefs Kingdom, I’m sorry for how it ended. I have a beautiful life, man."
Kelce also shared appreciation for the unwavering support of his loved ones, including his girlfriend Taylor Swift.
"I have loved ones, I have the most amazing family in the world that supports me in everything I do, and they were all there, cheering me on and hoping for the best on Sunday."
Jason Kelce Highlights His Brother’s Super Bowl Record
Despite the tough loss, Jason Kelce, who retired from the NFL last year, pointed out a major milestone his younger brother achieved during the game.
"You broke the most catches in Super Bowl history," Jason noted. "I know you don’t probably care that much about it right now because of the way the game went."
With four receptions for 39 yards against the Eagles, Kelce surpassed Jerry Rice’s record of 33 total Super Bowl receptions, setting a new benchmark at 35. However, the Chiefs' star downplayed the achievement.
"That’s the last thing that I care about right now," he admitted.
Post-Game Locker Room Reaction
Speaking to reporters after the game, Kelce reiterated his respect for the Eagles' performance.
"Hats off to the Eagles, man. They got after us, all three phases."
Acknowledging the team’s offensive struggles, he added, "[We] couldn’t get it going offensively. I mean they just got after us on all three phases and then on top of that, you know, turnovers, penalties, playing behind the sticks on offense."
Kelce emphasized that the Chiefs fought until the very end despite their difficulties.
"We just couldn’t find that spark. We couldn’t find that momentum. We haven’t played that bad all year. You don’t lose like that without everything going bad."
Although the season ended in disappointment, Kelce's legacy continues to grow as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history.
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