Entering his 13th season, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is starting to field questions about his future. Check out how he responded. Football remains a game of attrition, where players endure hits and punishment from U11 to the NFL.
While that can take a toll on the human body, it remains the individual’s choice when he figures out the appropriate time to hang up the cleats. How will the future Hall of Famer respond?
How Did KC Chiefs Tight End Travis Kelce Respond to the Retirement Talks?
Statistically, Kelce ended one of the worst years in his storied career. First, the 823 yards receiving, 8.5 yards per reception, and three receiving touchdowns are the lowest of his tenure in Kansas City. Next, the 47 first-down catches could signal the beginning of the end for the ten-time Pro Bowler.
Moreover, from the second half of the Week Nine game against the Broncos through the Super Bowl, Kelce found the end zone twice. As a result, questions regarding his future and if this season could serve as his last began to surface.
Chiefs TE Travis Kelce on whether it’s his last ride: “It’s the last year on the contract, but I’m feeling young and ready to rock.”
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) September 4, 2025
“Chiefs TE Travis Kelce on whether it’s his last ride: “It’s the last year on the contract, but I’m feeling young and ready to rock.”
You can parse that quote in a few different ways. Kelce’s deal expires at the end of this season. Does that mean that he wants another one, or is he content with walking away, regardless of whether the Chiefs win or lose the Super Bowl? Next, Kelce turns 36 on October 5. How much youth does he believe he has left after 9,936 snaps in the NFL?
Additionally, Kelce’s personal life changed when he became engaged to singer Taylor Swift. How does that affect his plans?
As mentioned, Kelce plays an incredibly demanding position on the field. Earlier this year, on his “The Heights” podcast, via Newsweek, the four-time All-Pro opened up about the toll.
“We have been going to these AFC Championships and these Super Bowls. That means I am playing three more games than everybody else in the league. That’s a lot of wear and tear on your body and a lot of time spent in that building. Focusing on your craft, the task at hand, and every challenge you set up for yourself.”
To his credit, Kelce showed up to camp looking lighter than he has in a while. With the lighter frame, he may think that could help him recuperate quicker, while shedding weight would benefit his joints. Either way, Kelce appears proactive entering the season.
Kelce plays for a team that annually holds the crown as the best team in the AFC. Subsequently, the Chiefs became the Super Bowl favorite. The extra gameplay is a physical factor for all who play. With his personal life changing, does this mean that Kelce’s professional one will follow suit?