LeBron James, the iconic 3-time Olympic Gold Medalist and Los Angeles Lakers star, recently caused quite a stir in the NFL world with his bold statements. While praise from LeBron is usually considered the highest honor, Kansas City Chiefs legend Travis Kelce might not be too thrilled with being booted off LeBron’s “Tight End Mount Rushmore” to make room for himself.
Before venturing full-time into acting with Adam Sandler or exploring the world with his girlfriend Taylor Swift, the 34-year-old Kelce is determined to add to his NFL legacy by aiming for a Super Bowl three-peat alongside Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City this year. Kelce’s impressive resume includes three Lombardi trophies, nine straight Pro Bowl appearances, and numerous NFL postseason records that highlight his ability to shine in crucial moments.
Nonetheless, some argue that Kelce may not even be the best Chiefs tight end of all time, as that title could belong to Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. Gonzalez, who spent 12 seasons with Kansas City, amassed over 900 catches and 10,000 receiving yards, revolutionizing the tight end position along the way.
LeBron, who is no stranger to greatness himself, initially included Gonzalez on his Tight End Mount Rushmore alongside Kelce, Kellen Winslow Sr, and Shannon Sharpe. However, LeBron had a change of heart and added Rob Gronkowski to the list, relegating Gonzalez to an honorable mention spot, much to the dismay of Chiefs fans.
“Unc needs to stick to basketball,” one disgruntled fan commented on TikTok. Another fan argued, “No way Gronk isn’t better than Kelce,” expressing dissent over Travis’ exclusion from the list.
Gonzalez’s impact on the tight end position cannot be understated, as he paved the way for players like Kelce to play more like wide receivers and set receiving records. With his number 88 retired by both the Chiefs and the Atlanta Falcons, where he concluded his career, Gonzalez’s legacy in the NFL is solidified.
Despite playing in an era less favorable to passing offenses, Gonzalez still ranks in the top 10 in NFL history in career receptions, receiving touchdowns, and receiving yards. While LeBron may have enough on his plate already with the Michael Jordan debate in basketball, he’s managed to ruffle some feathers in the NFL community as well.
