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Travis Kelce recalls what Mike Tomlin did to ‘intimidate’ him in Steelers draft meeting

Travis Kelce was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 63rd overall pick of the 2013 NFL Draft but the tight end did meet with Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Yardbarker

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 11:13 AM

Key Things to Know

Travis Kelce recalled Mike Tomlin placing "Mean Joe Greene" under a spotlight to intimidate him during a 2013 meeting.
Mike Tomlin confirmed on the New Heights podcast that using Greene's presence was an intentional intimidation tactic.
The Kansas City Chiefs selected Kelce with the 63rd overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Travis Kelce discussed his 2013 pre-draft meeting with Mike Tomlin during an appearance on the New Heights podcast. Kelce revealed that Tomlin deliberately positioned Pittsburgh Steelers legend "Mean Joe Greene" under a dim room light during their NFL Combine meeting to create an intimidating atmosphere. Tomlin confirmed the tactic was intentional and designed to test prospects.

Kelce entered the 2013 NFL Draft facing concerns regarding his off-field behavior before being selected by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 63rd overall pick. Tomlin admitted he was intrigued by Kelce's competitive edge, though Pittsburgh instead chose Jarvis Jones and Le'Veon Bell with their first two selections.

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Travis Kelce recalls what Mike Tomlin did to ‘intimidate’ him in Steelers draft meeting

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