PATRICK MAHOMES has given a clear reason for Travis Kelce’s struggles early on in the Kansas City Chiefs’ season.

The superstar tight end has failed to live up to his usually high standards so far, despite a 3-0 record for his team.

He looked miserable on the bench during their 22-17 win at the Atlanta Falcons after being spotted by CBS TV cameras.

Kelce has not had a huge number of targets through the first three games of the season, unlike previous years.

And Mahomes has put that down to rival NFL team defenses purposely targeting the 34-year-old.

“I mean, the respect factor they have for Travis is still unreal, and it’s well deserved,” said the 29-year-old quarterback.