Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce became the third tight end in NFL history to reach 1,000 career receptions during Wednesday’s 29-10 victory over the host Pittsburgh Steelers.
Kelce reached the milestone by making a 19-yard catch late in the third quarter. He later caught a touchdown to set a franchise record for receiving scores.
Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez (1,325) and Jason Witten (1,228) were the first two tight ends to gain membership in the 1,000 receptions club. Witten, a 11-time Pro Bowl selection, retired after the 2020 season and isn’t yet eligible for enshrinement.
Kelce also caught a touchdown pass to become Kansas City’s all-time leader with 77, one more than Gonzalez, who earned 10 of his 14 Pro Bowl selections with the Chiefs.
After making the catch to surpass Gonzalez’s touchdown mark, Kelce dunked the football over the crossbar. Gonzalez, who also played college basketball, celebrated TD catches with the same maneuver.
“It means everything to me,” Kelce said on the Netflix broadcast of passing Gonzalez. “Tony had been a mentor for me and he’s been there for me, any questions I’ve ever had. I feel like I’m still filling that guy’s shoes.
“He’s such an unbelievable competitor and I have so much for love for him. It’s an honor to even be in conversations with him.”
Kelce’s touchdown catches rank fifth all-time among tight ends.
Kelce finished with eight receptions for 84 yards and has 1,004 receptions for his career. He is a nine-time Pro Bowl selection.
