After the Kansas City Chiefs” disappointing season came to a close with a 14-12 defeat against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 18, star tight end Travis Kelce openly addressed his uncertain future. This loss capped a challenging year for the Chiefs, finishing with a 6-11 record, and Kelce admitted that deciding whether to retire is one of the most difficult choices he has faced in his career.
At 36 years old, Kelce had an impressive season, recording 73 receptions for 839 yards and five touchdowns. He became only the third tight end in NFL history to exceed 13,000 career receiving yards. However, the latter part of the season proved to be particularly tough, especially in the absence of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who suffered an ACL injury. During the final three games, Kelce only managed eight catches, and he reflected on the impact of that finish.
Speaking to reporters in the locker room, Kelce expressed his pride in the team”s effort despite the disappointing end. “First things first, I just love this team,” he said. “I”m proud of the way we finished this, even though it ended the way it did.” He emphasized the commitment his teammates showed, adding, “Guys still showed up, gave it their all, and that”s all you can ask for.”
When questioned about his retirement timeline, Kelce admitted he was uncertain. “Who knows? Either it hits me quick or I”ve gotta take some time,” he noted. He contrasted this year”s decision-making process with last year”s, saying, “Last year was a little bit easier. I think I knew right away I wanted to give this one a shot. I don”t know. We”ll see.”
Kelce”s return this season was fueled by a desire to prove he could perform at a high level well into his mid-30s. “Obviously we didn”t do as well as a team, but I felt like I came into the season prepared and ready to rock and roll with the right intentions,” he remarked. He acknowledged the team”s struggles in close games, saying, “The ball just didn”t go our way in a lot of those close games, unfortunately. I think if I do choose to come back, that”s something I”ve really got to focus on, making sure I”m available and ready for those moments.”
The loss against the Raiders, marked by field goals rather than touchdowns, highlighted the Chiefs” broader struggles this season. The offense managed only 168 total yards without Mahomes. Nonetheless, Kelce reached a personal milestone during the game, surpassing the 13,000-yard mark with a five-yard reception from Shane Buechele.
For now, Kelce plans to discuss his future with family and teammates before making a decision. “I”ll get close to the family and figure things out,” he concluded. “I still have a lot of love for this game. If I came back, it would be just to answer that flame in my heart for this thing.”
