Rumors about Travis Kelce’s retirement have been swirling since the Kansas City Chiefs fell short of completing a Super Bowl three-peat in 2025. While the tight end ultimately suited up last season, there is once again uncertainty about his return for the 2026 season.
Kelce has spent his entire 13-year career with the Chiefs after being selected in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft out of Cincinnati. Over that span, he has become one of the most productive and decorated tight ends in history, helping Kansas City win three Super Bowl titles.
The 36-year-old was productive again last season, recording team highs of 76 catches for 851 yards and five touchdowns to earn his 11th consecutive Pro Bowl nod. However, with the Chiefs’ dynasty seemingly over, along with his age and wedding plans with pop star Taylor Swift, retirement rumors have naturally resurfaced.
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But if he decides against retirement, Kelce is expected to return only to Kansas City, and NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport believes a decision could come within the next week, ahead of the start of the new league year.
“Only going to play for the Kansas City Chiefs, but they want to make sure when there is a decision, he is a thousand percent all in,” Rapoport said from the Combine. “This week we should have some answers from Kansas City. What we know is they for sure, for sure want him back, especially considering how he played last year.”
Kelce has also suggested in recent weeks that he expects to make a decision before free agency and the draft ramp-up. Meanwhile, Kansas City’s front office has avoided making definitive statements about his return, and would need to offer him a new contract if he chooses to continue playing.
The Chiefs are coming off a 6–11 season in which they missed the postseason for the first time since 2014. They would face a significant void on offense without Kelce and his leadership. However, if he returns, quarterback Patrick Mahomes would retain one of his most trusted targets as he recovers from injury.