Travis Kelce possesses notable speed for a tight end, officially recording a 40-yard dash time of 4.61 seconds. This impressive time places him in the 88th percentile among tight ends, indicating he is faster than the vast majority of players at his position who have been measured.
Travis Kelce's 40-Yard Dash Time
The 40-yard dash is a crucial metric in American football, measuring a player's raw speed and acceleration. For a tight end, a 4.61-second 40-yard dash is considered exceptionally fast, especially given Kelce's size. This speed allows him to create separation from defenders, get open downfield, and turn short gains into significant yardage after the catch.
Key Measurables
Beyond his sprint speed, Travis Kelce's overall physical profile contributes to his effectiveness on the field. His combination of size and speed is a significant advantage.
| Measurable | Measurement | Percentile (vs. Tight Ends) |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6' 5" | 66th |
| Weight | 256 lbs | 66th |
| 40 Yard Dash | 4.61s | 88th |
For more detailed pre-draft athletic measurements, you can refer to resources like MockDraftable.
What His Speed Means for a Tight End
Kelce's elite speed for his position significantly enhances his role as a pass-catching tight end.
- Creating Separation: His ability to quickly accelerate allows him to beat linebackers and even some defensive backs off the line of scrimmage and throughout his routes.
- Vertical Threat: The 4.61s 40-yard dash enables him to be a legitimate deep threat, stretching defenses vertically and opening up opportunities for other receivers.
- Run After Catch: His speed, combined with his size and agility, makes him incredibly difficult to bring down once he has the ball, often leading to significant yardage after the catch.
- Route Versatility: It allows him to run a diverse route tree, from quick slants and outs to deep seams and corners, making him an unpredictable and dangerous target.
This blend of speed, size, and agility is a primary reason Travis Kelce is considered one of the most dominant and successful tight ends in the history of the NFL.
