Travis Kelce: A Missed Opportunity for the Cleveland Browns
When envisioning the trajectory of NFL superstar Travis Kelce, it’s easy to assume success was always predetermined. However, a decade ago, Kelce had his sights set on a different path—one that could have led to him donning the Cleveland Browns jersey.
Kelce’s Emotional Plea to the Browns
In the buildup to the 2013 NFL Draft, a pivotal moment for many aspiring athletes, Kelce had a heartfelt meeting with the Cleveland Browns and then-head coach Rob Chudzinski. Growing up in Cleveland Heights, Kelce wasn’t just another tight end hoping to secure a spot on an NFL roster; he was a passionate fan who wanted desperately to represent his hometown.
Quote from Travis Kelce
“I cried in [Chudzinski’s] office and said, ‘I will f–king die for this city!’” Kelce recalled in a recent interview with GQ. The emotional moment highlights his commitment and longing to play for the Browns: “I said, ‘I’m sorry I’m getting emotional. I grew up down the street. I would f–king do anything to play for the Cleveland Browns.’ He looked at me like I was insane. I don’t think he’d ever had somebody just pour out their emotions.”
The Draft Decision
Despite his impassioned plea, the Browns opted for different players in the draft, selecting linebacker Barkevious Mingo and cornerback Leon McFadden. Neither player achieved Pro Bowl status, although Mingo went on to win a Super Bowl with the 2016 New England Patriots.
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs took a chance on Travis Kelce, drafting him in the third round. This decision proved monumental, as Kelce evolved into one of the league’s most celebrated tight ends. He has amassed:
- 10 Pro Bowl selections
- 4 All-Pro honors
- 3 Super Bowl championships
Travis Kelce (87) looks on during the Chiefs’ preseason road loss to the Cardinals.
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Aftermath: Kelce’s Accomplishments
With his career firmly established, Kelce has shattered records and etched his name in the annals of football greatness. Today, he stands as a linchpin of the Chiefs’ offense, celebrating achievements that elevate him among the elite:
- Over 10,000 receiving yards
- Countless highlight-reel touchdowns
Looking Forward: Moving On from Past Failures
As Kelce navigates his 13th NFL season, he recently addressed the aftermath of Super Bowl 2025, where the Chiefs faced a disappointing loss to the Eagles. “I’ve thrown that thing in the trash,” he asserted to reporters last week, emphasizing his focus on the future: “I’ve moved on. It happened sooner than you can imagine. I was pretty focused on this year in the offseason.”
Conclusion
Travis Kelce’s journey is a testament to perseverance and a reminder of the paths not taken. Though the Browns missed the opportunity to draft him, his legacy with the Kansas City Chiefs continues to grow. For Browns fans, it serves as a poignant reminder of what could have been, but for Kelce, it’s just one of many accomplishments that solidify his place in the NFL’s history.
For more on Kelce’s remarkable journey, check out articles on NFL.com and ESPN.
