Buffalo Bills’ Ed Oliver Thanks Travis Kelce and Chiefs Players for Standing With His Family in Emotional Tribute Before Chiefs-Buccaneers Preseason Kickoff-to His 2-Year-Old Son who died in home pool— “I Truly Appreciate You”

Ed Oliver Thanks Travis Kelce and Chiefs Players for Emotional Tribute to His 2-Year-Old Son

Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver is receiving an outpouring of support from across the NFL following the heartbreaking death of his 2-year-old son.

Ahead of the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ preseason kickoff, the two teams reportedly came together for a moving show of respect for Oliver’s family, with players and those in attendance standing in honor of his young son.

The gesture reportedly touched Oliver deeply, prompting the Bills star to express his appreciation to Travis Kelce and other Chiefs players for showing compassion during an incredibly difficult period for his family.

The tribute was a powerful reminder that NFL rivalries can be put aside when tragedy strikes. Rather than focusing solely on the game, the moment gave players and fans an opportunity to stand together in support of a fellow member of the NFL community.

Oliver’s 2-year-old son died following a swimming-pool incident in Harris County, Texas, on June 28. The toddler was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Oliver and his family have requested privacy and prayers as they grieve.  

The Buffalo Bills organization publicly expressed its condolences to Oliver and his family, with general manager Brandon Beane describing the loss as an “unthinkable tragedy for any parent.”  

Bills quarterback Josh Allen also spoke about the importance of supporting Oliver, saying that teammates could do little beyond being there for him and showing him love during the devastating period.  

For Oliver, the reported gesture from the Chiefs and Buccaneers represents another example of the support surrounding his family. And his appreciation for Kelce and the Chiefs players highlights the human side of professional football—where, beyond the competition, players can come together to support one another through unimaginable loss.

At a time when words can never truly ease the pain, the gesture was a powerful message of solidarity: football may be a rivalry, but compassion comes first.