Travis Kelce's coach has opened up about the Kansas City Chiefs star's health amid the tight on-field battle this season.
The reigning Super Bowl champions have not shown their usual form this season, falling to 9-6 after a 20-14 Christmas Day loss to the Las Vegas Raiders.
And just as the Chiefs' offense has failed, so has Kelce, who hasn't been the same difference-maker he has been in recent years.
Amid the Chiefs' offensive woes, many critics have pointed the finger at Kelce's new girlfriend, pop star Taylor Swift, but his trainer, Andrew Spruill, has dismissed those accusations, labeling them “ridiculous.”
Instead, Spruill, who lives in Florida, cited Kelce's health as the reason behind his struggle.
Travis Kelce's trainer, Andrew Spruill, is pictured with Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift
Spruill explained the reasons behind the drop in his usual production this season
“He started hurt and missed game one,” Spruill told the BBC Palm Beach Post. 'Two days before the match he hyperextended his knee during training.'
Kelce suffered a hyperextended knee during practice a few days before the Chiefs opener against the Detroit Lions.
It was initially feared he would miss the entire season, but in a boost against Kansas City, he was ultimately ruled out for the Week 1 loss.
“He's been as healthy as you can be for an NFL player throughout his career,” Spruill added. “He missed his rookie year, but he hadn't missed a game until this year.
“That, plus a new offense and the receivers they have, hasn't gone as expected. It certainly put a damper on his typical production.”
Despite his fall, the two-time Super Bowl winner is still Patrick Mahomes' favorite target
Despite missing his usual high output, Kelce is still on pace to record 103 receptions for 1,106 yards and six touchdowns as quarterback Patrick Mahomes' favorite target.
Spruill has been training Kelce since the 2013 NFL Combine and the two-time Super Bowl winner has spent seven of 11 offseasons in Boca Raton training with the trainer for two months.
And Spruill expects he will balance spending time with Swift and the gym this offseason before returning for another season.
“He says he'll be back,” Spruill said. 'I went to see him for two games. I trust he will come back, especially if he wants to continue playing at his age. He needs to get in the gym and make sure he's ready.”