The Kansas City Chiefs gave fans a light moment after Travis Kelce signed his new deal.
The Chiefs posted a video on X with a playful caption about his early days. It read, “Came a long way from Hoopsie, @tkelce 🤣,” pointing to his growth over the years.
In the clip, Kelce receives a framed photo of himself tied to his rookie memories at Arrowhead Stadium. A voice behind the camera tells him it comes from one of his first games.
Kelce laughs as he looks at it and recalls being called “Hoopsie”.
“Oh, man, this thing takes me back right here,” Kelce said. “That’s back, that’s back when they called me Hoopsie ’cause I had the hoops, and I used to mess up plays all the time. So yeah, I’ve come a long way. Go Chiefs.”
The post came just after Kelce secured a major contract extension. The timing added more meaning, as it showed his journey from a raw prospect to a veteran star.
Kelce’s new deal runs three years and can reach $57.735 million in total value. His average annual salary stands near $19.245 million, the highest ever for a tight end. He moved past George Kittle in that category.
The structure of the contract keeps flexibility for the team. Kelce will earn $12 million in 2026, with $3 million more in incentives. The deal includes $12 million in guaranteed money, all tied to the first year.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) leaves the field at Allegiant Stadium.Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
(Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
Despite a tough 2025 season for Kansas City, Kelce stayed productive. He recorded 76 catches for 851 yards and five touchdowns.
Kelce’s new contract and this tribute video show his growth and value on and off the field.
Related: Kenneth Walker III Speaks On Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs After Free Agency
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.