You’d hardly be able to tell that Travis Kelce was a true X-factor in the Kansas City Chiefs’ season-altering comeback victory over the Indianapolis Colts from looking at the box score. However, the future Hall of Fame tight end made his presence felt despite underwhelming statistical production, simply by being vocal.

Time already wasn’t on Kansas City’s side as they faced an 11-point deficit late against the Colts. Then, a fourth-quarter red zone fumble by running back Kareem Hunt just as the Chiefs were gaining momentum felt like the kiss of death. He was demonstrably frustrated with himself for making such a costly mistake in a critical juncture of a must-win game — until Kelce stepped in.

The CBS broadcast captured Kelce bear-hugging Hunt following the miscue and delivering what appeared to be some fiery words of encouragement. From that moment on, the Chiefs leaned on the latter to overcome the hole they dug themselves into and beat the Colts.

Travis Kelce’s spirited pep talk to Kareem Hunt silently propelled Chiefs to thrilling win vs. Colts

Kansas City wasted no time returning to Hunt in a high-leverage situation they absolutely needed to convert on their next offensive drive. They turned to him on a 2nd-and-goal opportunity, and he rewarded them with a high-flying short score that helped cut the deficit to three.

Instances like this are why Kelce remains indispensable to the Chiefs despite his declining on-field contributions. He caught four passes for a meager 43 scoreless yards, “adding” one rushing yard on a touchdown that was nullified by a questionable penalty. Nevertheless, the locker room still looks to him as a respected locker room leader, with a proven veteran like Hunt being no exception.

Hunt, Kelce and the Chiefs could’ve folded, as superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes highlighted after the contest. Instead, they ratcheted up the intensity and dominated in the final frame to keep their 2025 playoff hopes alive. It was a much-needed “heart of a champion” showing from a Kansas City squad seeking it’s fourth straight AFC crown.

It’s unclear what exactly Kelce said, though the message was ostensibly delivered. Hunt was instrumental to the Chiefs taking down Indianapolis, yielding 130 scrimmage yards and Kansas City’s lone paydirt trip on a whopping 33 touches.