Three Kansas City Chiefs starters remain off ESPN top 100 players list
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 11:35 PM
Last updated Sep 1, 2026
ESPN excluded Kansas City Chiefs starters Kenneth Walker III, Travis Kelce, and Trey Smith from its 2026 top 100 players list. The omission follows a 6-11 finish for the team during the 2025 season. Despite the ranking, Kenneth Walker III was noted by league personnel as a snub, citing his performance in the Super Bowl LX win and post-season production. Travis Kelce, a frequent selection on such lists throughout his career, was excluded despite finishing 2025 with significant receiving stats. Trey Smith, who signed a four-year contract extension and secured his second consecutive Pro Bowl selection, was also absent from the ranking. The recognition gaps reflect shifting perceptions of the team following its recent season performance.
- •Kenneth Walker III, Travis Kelce, and Trey Smith were left off the ESPN top 100 list.
- •Kenneth Walker III earned Super Bowl LX MVP honors during the 2025 season.
- •Travis Kelce ranked sixth in receptions and fourth in receiving yards among tight ends in 2025.
- •Trey Smith earned his second straight Pro Bowl selection and a four-year contract extension last year.
- •The Kansas City Chiefs finished the 2025 regular season with a 6-11 record.
- 11:35 PMYahoo Sports — Trio of Chiefs Starters Snubbed From ESPN’s Top 100 Players
"After a 6-11 2025 season, the Kansas City Chiefs aren’t commanding the same respect that they used to.They still have plenty of talent throughout the roster, but some believe their number of top tier players is dwindling. That was reflected a bit on Tuesday when ESPN released their Top 100 Players list for the 2026 […] The post Trio of Chiefs Starters Snubbed From ESPN’s Top 100 Players appeared first on HEAVY.
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