AceShowbiz - The Kansas City Chiefs have rallied behind their tight end, Travis Kelce, amidst mounting criticism about his slow start to the 2024 season. Before their game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, September 29, wide receivers Rashee Rice, JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman donned custom T-shirts featuring Kelce.

According to CBS Sports reporter Tracy Wolfson, Rice purchased the shirts as a gesture of support for their "leader and a guy who has mentored all of them." The shirts featured Kelce's name and images of him playing football.

This show of solidarity is not the first for the Chiefs' offense. Last week, players wore similar T-shirts honoring running back Isiah Pacheco, who was injured in the previous game.

Kelce, widely considered one of the best tight ends in NFL history, has had a disappointing start to the season with only 69 receiving yards and no touchdowns in three games. However, he had a strong performance against the Chargers, catching seven passes for 89 yards.

Former ESPN analyst Todd McShay has been among those criticizing Kelce, attributing his poor play to his newfound fame and lifestyle, including his relationship with Taylor Swift. McShay believes Kelce is "out of shape" and has been "partying all offseason."

Kelce has acknowledged the scrutiny, admitting that he could be playing "better" football. However, he also emphasized that he is "trying to make the play in big-time moments." Despite the criticism, the Chiefs remain confident in Kelce and believe his performance will improve over the course of the season.