Chiefs Face Backlash for Handing Tony Gonzalez’s Iconic Jersey to Travis Kelce’s Likely Successor

Former NFL tight end Shannon Sharpe criticized the Kansas City Chiefs for issuing Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez's former No. 88 jersey to second-year tight end Jake Briningstool. Sharpe expressed frustration on social media, arguing that the franchise should not give away Gonzalez's iconic number, particularly as Briningstool is viewed as a potential successor to Travis Kelce.

The Chiefs have historically been selective about retiring jersey numbers due to roster constraints during training camp, according to team owner Clark Hunt. The No. 88 jersey remains officially unretired and has been worn by multiple players since Gonzalez's departure, including Junior Hemingway, Ross Travis, and Peyton Hendershot.