When football fans think of Travis Kelce, they picture his powerful plays, unmatched chemistry with Patrick Mahomes, and his signature Travis Kelce jersey number — 87. That number isn’t just a random pick on a uniform. It’s a deeply personal choice that has grown into one of the most iconic numbers in modern NFL history.
As of October 2025, Kelce continues to wear No. 87 for the Kansas City Chiefs, and its legacy is stronger than ever. From family ties to record-breaking performances, the story behind his jersey number is as memorable as his career itself.
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Why Travis Kelce Chose Jersey Number 87
Travis Kelce has proudly worn No. 87 since he was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013. His decision was intentional and rooted in family:
- A Tribute to His Brother
Travis chose 87 as a tribute to his older brother, Jason Kelce, who was born in 1987. Jason, a legendary center for the Philadelphia Eagles, has been Travis’s role model throughout his life. Wearing his brother’s birth year on his back serves as a constant reminder of their bond and shared journey from backyard football to NFL stardom. - Family Motivation on the Field
For Travis, 87 represents more than numbers. It’s a symbol of loyalty, family pride, and the drive to uphold the Kelce legacy on the national stage.
This deep meaning is why he has never changed his jersey number during his entire NFL career.
How Number 87 Became a Fan Favorite
The No. 87 jersey has grown to be one of the best-selling jerseys in the NFL. Whether at Arrowhead Stadium or across the country, fans proudly wear Kelce’s number to show their support.
Over the years, 87 has become just as recognizable as his name. Here’s why:
- His consistent dominance as one of the league’s top tight ends
- His leadership role in the Chiefs’ rise to championship status
- His charismatic personality, which has won over fans beyond Kansas City
- His presence in Super Bowls, AFC Championships, and countless highlight reels
Whenever the Chiefs are on national television, it’s almost guaranteed that red No. 87 jerseys fill the stands.
Travis Kelce Jersey Number and His Career Milestones
Kelce’s No. 87 jersey has been there through every career-defining moment. From his rookie season to multiple Super Bowl titles, the number has become inseparable from his legacy.
| Year | Milestone Wearing 87 |
|---|---|
| 2013 | Drafted by the Chiefs, begins wearing 87 |
| 2016–2023 | Seven consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, a record for tight ends |
| 2019 | Helps lead Kansas City to its first Super Bowl win in 50 years |
| 2020–2024 | Plays key roles in repeated playoff runs and additional titles |
| 2025 | Enters his 13th season still wearing 87, remaining a top target |
Each milestone adds another layer of meaning to the number, making it one of the most celebrated in recent NFL history.
Cultural Impact of the 87 Jersey
The Travis Kelce jersey number has transcended football. It’s no longer just a sports uniform — it’s part of popular culture.
From game days to music festivals, fans wear No. 87 with pride. It’s common to see his jersey at events far beyond Kansas City, reflecting his nationwide appeal. Younger fans see Kelce not just as a football player, but as a cultural icon whose number represents excellence, family, and personality.
Celebrities and fellow athletes have also been spotted wearing his jersey, turning 87 into a fashion statement as much as a fan symbol.
The Chiefs’ Identity and Number 87
For the Kansas City Chiefs, No. 87 represents an era of dominance. Kelce has become one of the franchise’s greatest players, and his jersey number is a key part of the team’s visual identity.
When fans see Mahomes launching a pass to Kelce in the end zone, the red 87 is unmistakable. It symbolizes not just an individual but the entire offensive system the Chiefs have built around their star duo.
The number has become so connected to the team’s success that many believe it will eventually be retired by the franchise, ensuring that no future player will ever wear 87 again.
How Fans Can Own the Travis Kelce Jersey
Demand for authentic Travis Kelce jerseys remains sky-high across the U.S. Fans can choose from several styles to match their game-day vibe:
- Home Jersey (Red) – The classic version seen at Arrowhead Stadium.
- Away Jersey (White) – Sleek and sharp, worn during road games.
- Alternate Jerseys – Special releases for key matchups and events.
- Customized Jerseys – Fans can add personal touches like patches or inscriptions.
Owning an 87 jersey has become a must for Chiefs fans, representing both loyalty to the team and admiration for one of its all-time greats.
The Future of Number 87
As Kelce continues to play deep into his career, discussions are already underway about what will happen to jersey number 87 when he retires. Many expect the Chiefs to officially retire the number, placing it among the franchise’s legends.
Given his achievements, leadership, and cultural impact, retiring 87 would be a fitting tribute. It would permanently link the number to his name in team history, ensuring no one else wears it in Kansas City.
More Than Just a Number
Travis Kelce’s jersey number is more than a uniform identifier. It’s a tribute to family, a symbol of excellence, and a cultural icon in American sports. Over 13 seasons, 87 has become a symbol recognized by football fans nationwide.
Every time Kelce takes the field wearing that number, he adds another chapter to its growing legacy.
Do you own a Travis Kelce jersey? What does the number 87 mean to you as a fan? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.