NFL salary drama erupts as Pat McAfee demands Chiefs ‘take care’ of Travis Kelce after George Kittle lands record deal

Pat McAfee has ignited a fiery debate in NFL circles, calling out the Kansas City Chiefs for what he believes is a serious underpayment of their superstar tight end, Travis Kelce. Following George Kittle’s recent four-year, $76.4 million extension with the San Francisco 49ers—which includes a staggering $40 million guaranteed—Kelce’s position as one of the league’s top-paid tight ends has now slipped to third place.During a segment on The Pat McAfee Show, the outspoken former NFL punter didn’t mince words. “We didn’t talk about Kittle all last year, yet he led in everything,” McAfee said. “And now Travis is making less? That’s wild.”Travis Kelce inked a two-year, $34.25 million extension just before the 2024 season, which briefly crowned him the highest-paid tight end in the league. But Kittle’s record-breaking deal and the rise of young stars like Trey McBride have shifted the market, leaving Kelce behind—at least on paper.While Kelce’s raw production has declined—he hasn’t topped 1,000 yards or averaged more than 8.5 yards per reception since 2023—his intangible value remains sky-high. His connection with Patrick Mahomes continues to be one of the NFL’s most lethal, and he’s still the focal point of every opposing defense’s game plan.“Travis Kelce took less money before. He wanted to keep the team together, win rings,” McAfee pointed out. “But at some point, the team's gotta take care of its legends.” Despite the dip in statistical dominance, Kelce’s impact remains undeniable. NFL Network’s James Palmer reinforced this point, stating, “Nobody draws more attention on third down than Kelce. Even with the drop in raw numbers, defenses still build game plans around him.”With San Francisco also preparing a major extension for quarterback Brock Purdy, the message is clear: star players are getting paid. Now, pressure is mounting on Chiefs GM Brett Veach to do the same for one of the franchise’s most iconic players.Also Read: “Viva Las Vegas”: Travis Kelce 'felt like home' in his Las Vegas weekend trip without Taylor SwiftAs the offseason unfolds, all eyes are on Kansas City. Will they honor Kelce’s legacy with a payday to match? Or will his willingness to sacrifice for the team continue to be quietly overlooked?