After giving up a first-round draft pick to get highly touted, never-miss-a-game, best tight end in football Travis Kelce — fantasy managers were left holding the bag when he was unable to play in Week 1. It was even scarier for managers when they saw reports that said his ACL was still intact. You never like to see the word ACL in an injury report, even a good one.
Owners had to scramble to find pivot options off the waiver wire, and for a position like TE, the pickings were slim.
Here is the latest on the Kelce injury and what it means for fantasy football.
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Latest News Surrounding Travis Kelce
Everyone who drafted Kelce early this season had to go without him in Week 1, as he was sidelined due to a knee injury. He had suffered a hyperextended knee during practice prior to the start of the season, and he had a reported 45 cubic centimeters of blood that had to be drained from the area.
The Kansas City Chiefs were hopeful he could start in Week 1 — Kelce himself made a strong push to start — but the team did not want to risk extended damage.
On Monday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said Kelce was “progressing” and “getting better.” Kelce clocked limited practices Wednesday – Friday this week.
Will Kelce Play This Week?
After describing to his brother Jason on the New Heights podcast that he felt horrible for not being able to play in the first game, it’s looking like Travis will take the field on Sunday against Jacksonville.
In fact, Reid told reporters that Kelce will play in Week 2, even though he’s listed as questionable on the injury report.
Travis Kelce returned to practice, clutching his knee … Never mind, he's fine 😂
(📽️ @JaredKCTV5)pic.twitter.com/7Nkv7hz14G
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 15, 2023
What Does This Mean for Kelce’s Fantasy Rankings?
As soon as Kelce gets on the field, he’s the TE1 in fantasy football. He can do what no other tight end can do, and his connection with Patrick Mahomes is undeniable. We all saw how important Kelce is to the Chiefs’ offense after Thursday night when there was no clear pass catcher to step up and take his place.
If Kelce plays, he should have a stellar game. Do not think twice about starting him.
Remember to check out our PFN Consensus Rankings just in case things change with Kelce and you need a last-minute waiver wire add.