In the latest episode of “New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce,” the Kelce brothers recapped the Chiefs’ divisional-round victory over the Buffalo Bills. Travis Kelce made it a point to apologize to teammate Mecole Hardman for his block on the play where Hardman fumbled at the goal line, leading to a touchback.
“I’m not gonna lie, man. I owe Mecole a [expletive] new car or something. I owe so much to him. My block was the one that knocked the ball out. And I’ve been [expletive] sick. I told him I apologized to him every time I [expletive] saw him and would apologize again. My bad, Mecole, man,” said Kelce. “Yeah, my guy was just trying to be great and get the ball in the end zone, and I’m thinking it’s a type (of) speed. We’re outside of the guy, (he) goes inside. … And he just finished the play better than I did and got a hand on the ball. And man, I owe my guy big time, man.”
The touchback didn’t come back to haunt the Chiefs as they held on for the 27-24 victory. Afterward, head coach Andy Reid immediately came to the defense of his receiver. Kelce’s admission puts better context on the play as the team continues to support and rally behind Hardman.
“I feel bad for him. And there’s nothing worse than giving up the ball, especially in a situation too.” said Kelce. “He wants another opportunity to get the ball and show what he can do with it. And sure enough, you’ll see him next Sunday. Come up in right on time, baby.”
Hardman is one of the fastest players in the league and when given an opportunity in space can be a game-changer for the Chiefs on Sunday in the passing game or on special teams.