Concerns Mounting Over Noah Gray's Production in Kansas City Chiefs Offense

The Kansas City Chiefs are experiencing a challenging season, currently holding a 5-5 record as of Week 11. Among the roster, tight end Noah Gray has emerged as a focal point of concern due to his declining production. After a promising trajectory in previous seasons, Gray's performance in 2025 has not met expectations, raising questions about his role in the team's offensive strategy.

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Noah Gray has participated in all games this season but has recorded only 13 receptions on 24 targets, totaling 107 receiving yards without any touchdowns. This marks a significant drop from his performance in 2024, where he was ranked as a Top 10 tight end by Pro Football Focus, achieving an overall grade of 74.2. The decline in his statistics is particularly notable given that he was anticipated to take on a larger role following the 2024 season.

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The presence of veteran tight end Travis Kelce has been a double-edged sword for Gray. While Kelce's experience and skill set are invaluable to the Chiefs, his continued involvement in the offense may be limiting Gray's opportunities. Kelce, who has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs' offensive scheme, is still receiving a significant workload despite concerns about his performance level. This dynamic raises the possibility that both tight ends could be more effective if Gray were given more targets as the season progresses.

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Looking ahead, Gray is positioned to become the primary tight end for the Chiefs in the 2026 season, as he is under contract until 2027. In contrast, Kelce is set to become a free agent at the end of the current season. This transition could provide Gray with the opportunity to reclaim his previous level of production and become a more integral part of the Chiefs' offense.

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Head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes have expressed confidence in both tight ends, emphasizing the importance of their contributions to the team's success. However, there is an acknowledgment that Gray's increased involvement is crucial for the Chiefs to remain competitive as they aim for a playoff spot.

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Critics have pointed out that the Chiefs' reliance on Kelce, despite his waning performance, may hinder the team's overall offensive effectiveness. Some analysts argue that a more balanced distribution of targets between Gray and Kelce could enhance the team's chances of success in the latter part of the season.

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• “If Gray and Kelce can both be as impactful as Gray was in 2024 , and how Kelce has played as of late, there's a chance for this franchise to chase down a playoff spot, which they don't hold going into Week 12.” — Dominic Minchella, Kansas City Chiefs Beat Writer

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• “Gray should be finding himself more involved as the season is headed for the home stretch.” — Dominic Minchella, Kansas City Chiefs Beat Writer

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As the Chiefs navigate the remainder of the season, the performance of Noah Gray will be critical in determining their playoff aspirations.

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