The Kansas City Chiefs faced a tough defeat against the Denver Broncos on Thursday night, which may have been the last time Travis Kelce stepped onto the field at Arrowhead Stadium. Following the game, the star tight end was hesitant to discuss his future.
In a game that saw the Chiefs down their starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes and backup Gardner Minshew due to knee injuries, Kelce managed to secure five receptions for 36 yards. Despite the odds stacked against them, with Kansas City as nearly two-touchdown underdogs, Kelce”s efforts nearly sparked a late-game comeback. Ultimately, the Chiefs fell short, losing 20-13.
Kelce, a four-time All-Pro, has been contemplating retirement, especially after the Chiefs were eliminated from playoff contention for the first time in ten years. The 36-year-old tight end expressed pride in continuing to play despite the team”s struggles, having already secured three Super Bowl titles and participated in five championship games.
After the game, Kelce reflected on the emotional experience, stating, “A whole lot of emotions. You”ve got everybody in the world watching you. You get to go out there with the young guys on primetime television.” He emphasized the significance of playing in front of passionate fans, noting, “You only get a few of those moments where you get to stand there and appreciate 60, 70-thousand Chiefs fans cheering for you.”
The tight end”s fiancée, pop star Taylor Swift, was present in a suite, along with Mahomes and Minshew, both recovering from injuries. Kelce remarked on the love and support from the fans, saying, “It”s a beautiful thing, man. It”s something I know I”ll cherish forever.”
Throughout his 13-year career, Kelce has played 97 games at Arrowhead, recording 645 receptions, which ranks third all-time for a single stadium since the AFL-NFL merger.
As the Chiefs prepare for their season finale against the Las Vegas Raiders, Kelce stands on the cusp of a milestone, needing just ten more receiving yards to reach 13,000 for his career. He also has the opportunity to extend his franchise record by catching a pass in his 191st game. With the team struggling lately, having lost five straight games and seven of their last eight, there is a possibility he could conclude the season on a positive note.
Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones expressed a desire for Kelce to return for another season, stating, “We”ve been through so much together. Just one more season. Just one more.”
