It's no secret that the Kansas City Chiefs need a replacement for Travis Kelce. Even though the star tight end is back for his 14th season with the team, his retirement is not far off.

The Chiefs have signed some undrafted free agents after the 2026 NFL Draft. Among them is John Michael Gyllenborg, who played for the Wyoming Cowboys for four seasons.

“So any young TE that joins the building has to have at least a little thought that there could be a bigger role coming for them down the road,” The Sporting News reported.

Gyllenborg is a 6'5 249-pound physical powerhouse with elite athleticism.

He showed that he can be a reliable target during his college career at Wyoming. He racked up 80 receptions for 1,023 yards and seven touchdowns in 43 games.

Interestingly, Gyllenborg is a Kansas City native and had attended Rockhurst High School, which sits just 30 minutes away from Arrowhead Stadium.

Gyllenborg signed a three-year, $3.12 million contract with the Chiefs. But things aren't all smooth for the rookie TE.

He faces a significant battle to secure a permanent spot, especially with the presence of players like Noah Gray. 

Improving his skills becomes more important as Travis Kelce is nearing the end of his career. So, this will be Gyllenborg's chance to learn from the veteran TE.

John Michael Gyllenborg Grew Up Watching Travis Kelce

With Noah Gray and Travis Kelce on the roster, it's difficult for John Michael Gyllenborg to make the final roster. But even then, the rookie will get to learn from the star TE he has long admired.

“Growing up watching (Travis) Kelce for sure, it’s been 10 years, but just his creativeness in the receiving game, like when it’s man coverage, how he creates separation and how he may not be the fastest tight end in the NFL, but he gets open,” Gyllenborg said in February.

To stay on the roster, Gyllenborg still has some work to do. He needs to make sure he doesn't drop the ball as often and needs to be tougher when catching passes while defenders are hitting him. 

The good news is that other tight ends on the team, like Jared Wiley and Jake Briningstool, haven't secured their spots yet. This creates a perfect opening for Gyllenborg to prove he belongs. 

What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore