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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Valentina Martinez

Travis Kelce reveals Derwin James was one of reasons he didn’t play in Chiefs’ win over Chargers

In the latest New Heights Podcast, Travis Kelce shared that one of the reasons he elected not to play in last Sunday’s game against the Chargers was because of safety Derwin James.

“Is it not obvious? You think I was trying to go out there and get powerbombed by Derwin James again?” Kelce said. 

Kelce hilariously hasn’t forgotten about the piledrive by James near the endzone during the 2022 season. Kelce was less than 20 yards away from reaching 1,000 receiving yards but decided not to play in Sunday’s matchup against the Bolts. 

The last time the Chargers faced the Chiefs in October, Kelce had a dominant game as he scored a touchdown, produced 179 yards, and had 12 catches. Nevertheless, on their podcast, Kelce told his brother Jason that “it never felt right to go out there chasing stats.” 

Jason then told Travis he believes the Bolts’ defense would’ve played extra gritty to prevent him from reaching the accolade. 

“They got a lot of veteran football players that understand the game,” Kelce replied. 

Although the Chargers’ season is over, it’s always a compliment to hear from one of the best tight ends in the league that the Bolts have some good talent on their squad. 

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