Kelce, 34, was sitting behind the likes of possible retiree Darren Waller, T.J. Hockenson and George Kittle in terms of highest-paid TEs before agreeing to a fresh two-year pact that will pay him $17.125 million per year through the 2025 season. It’s a well-deserved raise for inarguably the most impactful tight end of this active crop and possibly of all time.

It’s also one Kelce says he’s thankful he didn’t have to stress on Kansas City to pursue.

“I’m not a guy that sits out, I’m not a guy that holds out. I’m a guy that loves coming into the building, and the Chiefs know that,” Kelce continued, possibly alluding to Chris Jones‘ 2023 impasse with the team. “For them to want to be able to get this done for me, knowing how much blood, sweat and tears I put into this thing for ’em, I’m extremely grateful and extremely thankful for everyone involved, man. I love Kansas City for it.”

For at least the next two campaigns, Patrick Mahomes will have his preferred pass catcher in the fold, as Kansas City continues its on-the-fly offensive revamp. New to Kelce and Mahomes’ side this season will be Marquise Brown, who should take over WR1 duties from Rashee Rice as the NFL looks into the second-year WR’s involvement in an April car crash; tight ends Irv Smith and Jared Wiley, a fourth-round rookie; and Kansas City’s first-round pick, Xavier Worthy.

Kelce said he is intrigued by Worthy’s speed — he set the NFL Scouting Combine record with a 4.21-second 40-yard dash — and sees him as a natural fit in the Chiefs’ attack, filling roles previously held by Tyreek Hill and the like.

“It’s looking like Pat has another extremely fast man to throw the ball deep to — or just get the ball to in his hands, because a lot of his highlights, you see, he catches the ball and he’s splitting defenders and making guys miss,” Kelce said. “He’s an all-around football guy. He’s not just track speed.”