KANSAS CITY – In the ever-evolving chess match that is the NFL, few positions demand as much versatility and skill as tight end. They’re the Swiss Army knives of football—expected to block like linemen, catch like receivers, and often serve as the emotional heartbeat of their teams. For nearly a decade, Kansas City’s Travis Kelce has set the gold standard for the position. But as the Associated Press released its annual rankings of the league’s top tight ends entering the 2025 season, fans and analysts alike were stunned: Kelce, the face of the modern tight end, was ranked only third.

A New Era for Tight Ends

The AP poll, determined by a panel of eight Pro Football Writers, weighed a mix of stats, team impact, and eye test. First-place votes were worth 10 points, with second through fifth earning 5, 3, 2, and 1 points, respectively. The voting wasn’t just about reputation—it was a snapshot of where the position stands heading into this season.

For years, Kelce’s name has been synonymous with dominance. His highlight-reel plays, postseason heroics, and undeniable chemistry with Patrick Mahomes have made him a household name—even among casual fans. But football, like life, is about what you’ve done lately. And in 2025, a new generation is staking its claim.

George Kittle: The NFL’s New Gold Standard

Topping the AP list is San Francisco’s George Kittle, who continues to redefine what it means to be a complete tight end. Kittle’s 2024 campaign was a masterclass in both receiving and blocking. He hauled in 78 catches for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns, all while anchoring an injury-riddled 49ers offense.

But what truly sets Kittle apart is his efficiency. He led all tight ends with 2.62 yards per route run—an elite number that speaks to his ability to create separation and maximize every opportunity. And unlike many pass-catching tight ends, Kittle remains a devastating blocker, a rare dual threat who’s earned first or second-team All-Pro honors in five of the last seven seasons.

“He’s the most complete tight end in the game,” said one AP voter. “He can beat you in the passing game, but he’s just as likely to blow up a linebacker in the run game. That’s rare.”

Brock Bowers: The Rookie Phenom

Sliding into the second spot is Las Vegas Raiders rookie Brock Bowers, whose debut season was nothing short of historic. Bowers shattered records with 1,194 receiving yards—more than any rookie tight end in NFL history—and his 112 catches set a new high-water mark for rookies at any position.

Bowers’ impact was immediate. He became the Raiders’ primary receiving threat, a first-team All-Pro, and a nightmare for defensive coordinators. His combination of size, speed, and hands has many analysts predicting he could soon overtake Kittle as the game’s premier tight end.

“Bowers is a unicorn,” said another AP writer. “He’s got the physical tools, but it’s his football IQ and route running that blew people away. He’s the future of the position.”

Travis Kelce: Still Great, But Signs of Slowing

That brings us to Kelce, who, for the first time in years, finds himself outside the top two. On paper, his numbers remain impressive: 97 catches for 823 yards. But for a player who has redefined the ceiling for tight ends, those stats represent a significant step back.

Kelce’s yards per reception dipped to 8.5—a full four yards below his career average entering 2024. The drop-off was most noticeable after the catch, where he’s long been a terror for defenders. Last season, he forced fewer missed tackles and produced fewer explosive plays than at any other point in his career.

At 35, Kelce is battling Father Time, and the AP voters took notice. “He’s still a weapon, especially in the red zone and on third down,” said one voter. “But you can see the burst isn’t quite what it used to be.”

That’s not to say Kelce’s impact is gone. He remains Mahomes’ security blanket and one of the league’s most reliable targets in clutch moments. But with younger, faster, and more versatile tight ends emerging, Kelce’s grip on the top spot is loosening.

The Rest of the Field: McBride and Andrews Round Out the Top 5

Arizona’s Trey McBride lands at fourth after a breakout season in which he caught 111 passes for 1,146 yards—second only to Bowers among tight ends. McBride’s consistency and ability to move the chains made him a favorite target, though his red-zone production lagged, with just two touchdowns.

Baltimore’s Mark Andrews, long considered one of the league’s elite, comes in fifth. Injuries limited him in 2023, but he rebounded with 55 catches for 673 yards and an impressive 11 touchdowns last year. Still, a costly dropped two-point conversion in the playoffs left a bitter taste for Ravens fans.

Detroit’s Sam LaPorta and Minnesota’s T.J. Hockenson also received votes, underscoring just how deep and talented the position has become.

The Big Picture: What the Rankings Really Mean

The AP’s tight end rankings are more than just a list—they’re a reflection of how the position is evolving. No longer are tight ends simply oversized receivers or extra linemen. The best are true hybrids, capable of dictating matchups and transforming offenses.

For Kelce, the third-place finish isn’t an indictment—it’s a testament to his longevity. Few players maintain elite status into their mid-30s, especially at such a demanding position. But the NFL doesn’t wait for anyone. As Kittle and Bowers push the envelope, Kelce’s challenge is to adapt, evolve, and find new ways to make an impact.

What’s Next for Kelce?

Don’t count him out. If history has shown anything, it’s that Kelce thrives on doubters. With another year under Andy Reid and alongside Mahomes, there’s every reason to believe he’ll find ways to reinvent himself. Whether that means fewer explosive plays and more savvy route running, or a focus on mentoring the next generation of Chiefs pass-catchers, Kelce’s legacy is secure.

But for now, the AP has spoken: the torch is being passed, and the tight end position is in good hands.