Mahomes was able to come back to a Divisional Round win over the Jacksonville Jaguars after injuring his ankle, but he clearly struggled with pain and movement the rest of the game.
The quarterback was able to practice throughout the week, but concerns about his ability to play up to his usual standards persisted well into kickoff.
“There was no doubt in my mind that [Mahomes] would have been out there” Kelce said in his post-match press conference.
“I knew for sure that he would give this city, organization and group of players everything he has.
“You saw that it all came together out there for that final play and it’s moments like that that make being his teammate and being a part of the Kansas City Chiefs even more special.”
Despite his injury, Mahomes was able to beat counterpart Joe Burrow, completing 29 of 43 passes for 326 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions as he led the Chiefs to their third Super Bowl appearance in four years.
“It’s an incredible feeling [to be in the Super Bowl]Kelce added.
“We don’t need to look too far ahead right now, but I know we have a warrior back there at quarterback as we approach the biggest game of the season.
“No matter what, I know 15 will give us a chance to win it.”
With the Philadelphia Eagles edging out the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, Travis and Eagles center Jason Kelce are set to become the first pair of brothers to play against each other in a Super Bowl.
“It will be an incredible feeling [playing against Jason]”, Kelce told reporters.
“You won’t see much profanity from me because of the respect I have for everyone in the Eagles organization and the love I have for my brother.
“It will be an exciting game, that’s for sure. My mother can’t lose!”
The Eagles and Chiefs battle it out for a shot at Super Bowl immortality in Glendale, Arizona on Sunday, February 12.
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