The Draft Day Call: Why Travis Thought He Was Headed to the Rams

Draft day drama is the stuff of NFL legend, and few stories capture the suspense and surprise quite like the tale of Travis Kelce and the 2013 NFL Draft. Fans know Kelce today as the star tight end lighting up the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense, but imagine the shock — and excitement — when Travis thought he was headed to the Los Angeles Rams instead. Let’s dive into the behind-the-scenes call that left Kelce and fans buzzing, revealing how one phone call changed the trajectory of his career and altered NFL destiny.

The 2013 NFL Draft: A Pivotal Moment for Travis Kelce

Coming out of the University of Cincinnati, Travis Kelce was on the radar but not exactly a household name. Analysts saw his potential — his size, hands, and dynamic athleticism — but there was a question mark about his precise fit in the league. As the draft unfolded on April 25, 2013, Kelce eagerly awaited his turn, hoping for a call from any team poised to unlock his talent.

In the days leading up to the draft, rumors swirled about which team would snag this promising tight end. The Los Angeles Rams were reportedly in pursuit, eyeing Kelce to fill a crucial role in their offense. So when Travis’s phone rang on that fateful day, it was only natural for him to assume it was the Rams on the line.

The Unexpected Call: Chiefs, Not Rams

Here's where the story gets juicy. Despite Kelce’s expectations, the caller on the other end was not a Rams GM or scout — it was the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs had been quietly plotting their draft moves, and they had their eyes locked on Kelce to bolster their tight end position. In a surprising twist, Kansas City snatched him with the 63rd overall pick in the third round.

Kelce’s initial reaction? Shock mixed with relief and excitement. Thinking that the Rams were going to select him gave him a false sense of certainty—only to find out that fate had something else in store. The call from the Chiefs became one of the most memorable moments in draft day history, showcasing how unpredictable the NFL Draft can be, even for the players themselves.

Why Did Kelce Think the Rams Were Picking Him?

The miscommunication or assumption came from the intense draft day speculation and whispers. The Rams had made early moves that suggested they might prioritize the tight end position, and Kelce, like many insiders, believed Los Angeles had the pick. Plus, with each pick announced and each moment passing, the suspense grew — players often rely on agent tips and draft boards, but the actual calls can disrupt expectations.

Moreover, the Chiefs’ interest was more low-key in the public eye. Kansas City was focused on rebuilding their offense and saw Kelce as a perfect piece, but their strategy was intentionally under the radar. This secrecy added to the surprise element, making Kelce’s story all the more compelling for NFL fans who live for draft drama.

What This Meant for Kelce’s Career — and the NFL

Looking back, the draft day call was nothing short of a career-defining moment for Travis Kelce. What might have been a solid career with the Rams transformed into a superstar tenure with the Chiefs. Under Andy Reid’s system, Kelce blossomed into one of the league’s most prolific tight ends, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and playing a key role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LIV victory.

Fans often wonder how different NFL history might have been if Kelce had landed with the Rams — would he have reached the same heights? The Chiefs' decision to take a somewhat under-the-radar approach and secure Kelce proved to be a masterstroke. This story remains a powerful reminder of the unpredictability of draft day and how a single phone call can shift everything.

Behind the Scenes: The Human Side of Draft Day

While fans get caught up in picks and trades, this story highlights the emotional rollercoaster players experience. Receiving that call — knowing your future is about to be decided — is nerve-wracking. For Travis, thinking it was the Rams warmed his heart, but when the Chiefs’ voice came through, it was a thrilling surprise that changed his path forever.

Draft day is a suspenseful mix of hope, doubt, and dreams coming true. Kelce’s story is a prime example of how unpredictable, yet magical, the process can be. And it’s why NFL fans worldwide obsess over the draft every year — because you never know which call will alter the course of history.

Final Thoughts: The Call That Changed Everything

“The Draft Day Call: Why Travis Thought He Was Headed to the Rams” isn’t just a fun anecdote — it’s a testament to the drama that unfolds every April. For sports junkies tracking the draft and NFL newcomers curious about the inner workings of player selection, Kelce’s story offers a perfect blend of surprise, emotion, and destiny.

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, fans can look back at these moments and remember that every pick carries more than just talent — it carries dreams, surprises, and the promise of greatness. Travis Kelce’s unexpected destination with the Kansas City Chiefs is a reminder that sometimes, the biggest twist becomes the best storyline.

Keywords: Travis Kelce, 2013 NFL Draft, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Rams, NFL Draft drama, NFL Draft call, Travis Kelce draft story, NFL tight ends, NFL Draft surprises, NFL Draft 2013