Travis Kelce Was Laughing Mid-Air?! His Wild Reaction to Derwin James’ Powerbomb Tackle Stuns Fans

In a moment that left NFL fans and players alike in disbelief, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce found himself airborne, courtesy of a powerful tackle by Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. The play, which quickly went viral, showcased James’ exceptional strength and technique as he lifted the 6-foot-5, 256-pound Kelce off his feet and slammed him to the turf.

Reflecting on the tackle during an episode of the “New Heights” podcast, which he co-hosts with his brother Jason Kelce, Travis recounted the experience with humor and respect. “I made a cutback, and then all of a sudden, he is on me like lightning,” Kelce said. “I mean, he surprised the s— out of me. Lower man always wins in football.”

Despite the intensity of the hit, Kelce emphasized the sportsmanship displayed by James. “When I felt him wrap his arms around my legs, I’m chuckling in my mind. I’m like, ‘This is not about to end well for me right now.’ I’m going up, [and] what goes up must come down,” he said.

After the play, James checked on Kelce, asking, “Bro, you good?” Kelce appreciated the gesture, noting, “What a great guy, man.”

The mutual respect between the two players extends beyond this single play. In various interviews, Kelce has praised James’ abilities, acknowledging him as one of the few defenders capable of matching up physically and mentally. Their matchups are characterized by intense competition and a shared commitment to excellence.

This particular tackle not only highlighted James’ prowess but also underscored the physical demands and mutual respect inherent in professional football. For fans, it served as a reminder of the thrilling unpredictability of the sport and the high level of athleticism required to compete at the NFL level.

As the Chiefs and Chargers continue their divisional rivalry, moments like these contribute to the rich tapestry of NFL history, showcasing the blend of competition and camaraderie that defines the game.

For those interested in seeing the play and hearing Kelce’s full commentary, the “New Heights” podcast episode provides an in-depth look at the tackle and the players’ reactions.