From ‘Big Citrus’ to ‘Waffle House’: The best nicknames for the 2026 NFL Draft
Not only is the 2026 NFL Draft class loaded with talent, but it’s also loaded with unforgettable nicknames. Ayrton Ostley introduces the best players.
It was clear at first glance that the new three-year contract Kansas City Chiefs superstar tight end Travis Kelce signed on March 23rd was largely a window-dressing, but the cost of that curtain is now becoming clear.
of maximum value Kelce’s contract is worth $57.7 million, which, if fully realized, would make the 36-year-old 14-time Pro Bowler the highest-paid player at the position from an AAV standpoint, surpassing fellow tight end co-founder George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers (average salary of $19.1 million).
Don’t bet.
We knew Kelce’s contract was a significant backload considering he was guaranteed to make $12 million in 2026 (another $3 million in incentives), but we now know how unlikely it is for Kelce to return in 2027, at least based on his current contract structure.
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Kelce has a $40 million roster bonus – $40 million −For the 2028 season. Not only that, but the Chiefs have to pay it on June 8, 2027. So his contract is really only good for this season, and unless he gets a near-total overhaul of his contract at some point next year… it’s just as unlikely that he’ll play for a salary above $1 million as he is to receive that exorbitant bonus.
None of this is indicative of Kelsey’s worth. Especially after a resurgent 2025 season, he once again led KC in receptions (76), receiving yards (851) and tied for most TD grabs (5). These numbers are perhaps especially impressive considering quarterback Patrick Mahomes was sidelined late in the season with an injury.
And while Kelce’s new financial arrangement may not actually look as good as it looks in the headlines, we love the curtains anyway, Trav!
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