Tony Gonzalez passes the torch with classy response to Chiefs TE Travis Kelce’s record touchdown and celebration

From one G.O.A.T. to another, Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez officially passed the torch to Travis Kelce after the Christmas Day win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 17.

Dec 25, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) celebrates a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Acrisure Stadium.

During the game, Kelce scored what would be his 77th career touchdown reception, giving him the most touchdown receptions by a player in Chiefs franchise history. He surpassed Gonzalez, who he’s shown a deep respect for during his time in Kansas City.

“It’s everything to me,” Kelce said to Stacey Dales after the game. “Tony (Gonzalez) has been a mentor to me. He’s been right there for me, any questions I’ve ever had. And I feel like I’m still trying to fill that guy’s shoe. He’s such an unbelievable competitor, and I got so much love for him, and it’s just an honor to even be in conversations with him.”

Gonzalez took to X (formerly Twitter) after the game to congratulate Kelce on his achievement.

“Congrats to my man (Travis Kelce) on becoming the all time (Chiefs) leader in touchdowns! Keep blazing trails my friend! btw nice dunk,” he wrote.

As for Kelce mimicking Gonzalez and his signature celebration, Kelce didn’t even hesitate to do the now-outlawed celebration. He knew it would result in a penalty and that his kicker would be able to handle the long PAT

“I knew after the score, and I knew that my guy, Harrison (Butker), had my back on the field goal,” Kelce told reporters after the game. “So it’s just, it’s showing Tony (Gonzalez) some love and just a big tribute to who he’s been in this not only this organization, but who he’s been for football. And we know how iconic it was that he would dunk the ball over the goalpost all the time, and I gave my best effort. I don’t know if I did it quite like him, but I gave it a run.”

Throughout his NFL career, Kelce has always shown tremendous respect for the game and those star players who came before him. That certainly hasn’t changed, even though many will now consider him the G.O.A.T. over Gonzalez.

We’ll see if the NFL lets Kelce off the hook regarding a fine for the celebration or if Tony G. will fulfill his promise to pay the fine incurred during the team’s Black Friday game.