After the Kansas City Chiefs suffered a disappointing 14-12 defeat against the Las Vegas Raiders, tight end Travis Kelce expressed uncertainty regarding his future with the team. This loss marked the end of the Chiefs” season, eliminating them from playoff contention for the first time since 2014, prompting fans to wonder if Kelce”s time in the league is coming to a close.
“I just love this team,” Kelce stated following the game, as reported by ESPN”s Nate Taylor. “I”m proud of the way we finished this, even though it ended the way it did. The guys still showed up and gave it their all. That”s all you can ask for, man.”
Reflecting on his commitment to the franchise, Kelce added, “I”ve got so much love for this team, this organization and the people here. I”ll spend some time with them, go through exit meetings and get close to the family and figure things out.”
Kelce”s future had already been a topic of discussion after the Chiefs fell short in the previous February”s Super Bowl against the Philadelphia Eagles. The 36-year-old had previously announced intentions to return for the 2025 season, aiming to play one more year alongside quarterback Patrick Mahomes under his current contract. However, with the Chiefs concluding a challenging 6-11 season that saw Mahomes sidelined with a torn ACL and Kelce recording his lowest reception total since 2015, speculation about retirement has intensified.
“Who knows?” Kelce remarked when asked about his future. “Either it hits me quick, or I”ve got to take some time. Last year was a little bit easier. I think I knew right away I wanted to kind of give this one a shot. We”ll see.”
In the game against the Raiders, Kelce made three receptions for 12 yards, which allowed him to surpass 13,000 career receiving yards. He also became only the second player in NFL history to record 75 or more receptions in ten consecutive seasons. Overall, Kelce ended the season with 851 receiving yards and five touchdowns, setting a franchise record for touchdowns in November.
“We obviously didn”t do well as a team, but I felt like I came into the season prepared and ready to rock and roll with the right intentions,” Kelce reflected. “The ball just didn”t go our way in a lot of those close games, unfortunately. If I do choose to come back, that”s something I”ve really got to focus on, making sure I”m available and I”m ready for those moments.”
On a positive note, Kelce was selected for his 11th consecutive Pro Bowl this season, suggesting he may not be away from the gridiron for long. However, beyond this accolade, the uncertainty remains as to whether he will return for a 14th season.
