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Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Sport
Frankie Taddeo

Stephen A. Smith Fires Back at Travis Kelce, Chiefs Over Criticism of Media

The war of words between the media and Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce continues to be a hot topic off the field heading into a pivotal Week 15 in the NFL.

Kelce, who blasted the media this week on his New Heights podcast over criticism of the Chiefs and his teammates, drew the ire of ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith.

On his podcast, Smith emphatically fired back while calling for the two-time Super Bowl champion to stop his defense of his teammates due to their propensity to drop passes.

“Respectfully, bro you need to stop that s---,” said Smith. “Your receivers have dropped 33 passes this year. 33, dog. 33.”

Kelce and the Chiefs have drawn intense criticism after losing four of their last six games heading into Week 15.

Jay Biggerstaff/USA TODAY Sports

“Not even all of those COVID-19 vaccine commercials -with that smile on your face- gonna hide that,” added Smith. “Hell rather than get those vaccine shots, your receivers should get some velcro attached to their hands so they will catch the damn football. C’mon bro, these are professionals.”

Smith continued by highlighting the lack of statistical production of Kansas City’s much-maligned wide receiver Kadarius Toney.

“In 13 games this season, Kadarius Toney, in second halves this season has a total of seven catches for nine yards. You know I am not making this up Travis, you know I bring receipts. … Y’all ain't getting it done. The reigning, defending Super Bowl champions have a plethora of receivers who can’t catch the damn football.”

The Chiefs (8–5), who have lost four of their last six games, will look to silence their critics on Sunday when they head to Foxborough, Mass. to face the Patriots (3–10) at Gillette Stadium.

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