For several years, the Kansas City Chiefs have been actively strategizing on how to effectively transition from their superstar tight end Travis Kelce. This ongoing discussion has been a significant topic during the offseason, as the team considers the future of their tight end position and how best to prepare for life after Kelce.

Despite having drafted players like Noah Gray and Jared Wiley, neither has emerged as a true game-changer who could fill Kelce’s shoes post-retirement. This decision seems logical, as long as Kelce maintains his high level of performance, the team’s valuable resources should be allocated towards strengthening other areas of their lineup.

However, with Kelce approaching the age of 36 next year, the Kansas City Chiefs are running out of time to make a proactive move. Fortunately, the 2025 NFL Draft class boasts some promising tight end prospects. Below are five standout candidates that could potentially reshape the position for the Chiefs.

Discover Colston Loveland from Michigan: The Future Tight End Star

This season, Michigan’s passing offense has faced significant challenges, undergoing three different quarterbacks in just six games. Consequently, Colston Loveland‘s production has dipped due to some injury setbacks. So far, he has recorded 29 catches for 261 yards and one touchdown over five games, indicating potential that remains largely untapped amidst a turbulent season.

When evaluating Loveland’s film, he showcases every desirable quality you want in a tight end. His versatility shines as he makes an impact all over the field, excelling in both the slot and inline positions. His ability to thrive as an inline or “F” tight end makes him a valuable asset to any offense.

Loveland’s route-running skills are particularly impressive; he can execute any route in the playbook, but he truly excels on deep corner routes and out-and-up routes. His agility and burst allow him to change speeds effectively, creating separation from defenders. Additionally, his long legs enable him to distance himself from coverage, while his size makes him a formidable target in contested catch situations.

What sets Loveland apart from many college tight ends is his readiness to contribute as an NFL blocker. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 245 pounds, he possesses the length necessary to hold off edge rushers effectively. His excellent technique has made him a key player in Michigan’s diverse running schemes, showcasing his adaptability and skill set.

Loveland is poised to become a well-rounded NFL tight end with the athleticism needed to be a significant contributor in a passing offense. His potential makes him a likely candidate for a Round 1 selection in the upcoming draft.

Meet Tyler Warren from Penn State: A Versatile Offensive Weapon

During the recent Penn State vs. USC game, Tyler Warren was undoubtedly the standout player. The offensive coordinator, Andy Kotelnicki, has effectively utilized Warren in a myriad of creative play styles, showcasing his versatility as a true chess piece in the lineup.

Warren has the unique ability to function as a wildcat quarterback or running back, demonstrating his adaptability by being lined up in various positions. In a memorable play against USC, he took the snap and then sprinted downfield, successfully high-pointing the ball for a touchdown catch, highlighting his exceptional skill set.

Warren stands out as one of the most impressive athletes in college football, measuring 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 260 pounds. His size becomes particularly advantageous when utilized as a run blocker, where he can effectively engage with defenders and clear pathways for ball carriers.

Moreover, Warren excels at gaining yards after the catch, making him a valuable asset as a ball carrier. His combination of size and speed enables him to create significant yardage and maintain offensive momentum.

The more I observe Warren, the more I’m convinced he may be the best tight end in the upcoming draft. His unique abilities and versatility make him a standout player, and I’m eager to see how Kansas City head coach Andy Reid could leverage his talents.

Explore Gunnar Helm from Texas: A Rising Star Tight End

When discussing remarkable athletes, Gunnar Helm emerges as a highly skilled receiving tight end in this draft class. His fluidity as a route runner truly sets him apart, as he possesses loose hips that allow him to transition quickly between speeds and directions, making him capable of executing a variety of intricate routes. Once he has the ball, his vision and coordination enable him to navigate defenders effectively.

Helm reminds me of Dalton Kincaid, who entered the draft in 2023. Although he may not possess as much size, which could limit his inline usage, NFL offenses have adapted to effectively utilize tight ends with less blocking prowess. His athleticism allows him to be positioned in the slot, presenting a constant threat to defenses. Incorporating Helm into screens and option routes would greatly enhance any offense’s effectiveness.

Mason Taylor from LSU: A Fluid Route-Runner and Playmaker

This LSU prospect, Mason Taylor, is quite similar to Helm in terms of skill set. He is also an agile route runner capable of winning from the slot position. While Helm may exhibit slightly more explosiveness with the ball, both players have the potential to excel in slot alignments and succeed on option routes.

With key players like Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. moving on to the NFL, LSU has frequently deployed Taylor as a receiver in 2024. From this position, he has shown numerous positive receiving traits, consistently winning matchups and showcasing his playmaking ability.

Jake Briningstool from Clemson: The Inline Tight End Specialist

Among these talented prospects, Jake Briningstool may be the best suited for an inline tight end role. While he might not be the most versatile route runner compared to his peers in this class, he remains a dynamic downfield threat, capable of winning against defenders in the intermediate and red zone areas.

Briningstool excels when making vertical plays, leveraging his speed to break away from defenders. Additionally, he is a strong athlete capable of contributing as a reliable blocker, further enhancing his value on the field.

Other Promising Tight Ends to Watch: Georgia’s Oscar Delp, Iowa’s Luke Lachey, Oregon’s Terrence Ferguson, Notre Dame’s Mitchell Evans.