Travis Kelce's Chiefs Future, Potential Retirement Discussed in Latest NFL Rumors

The odds of Travis Kelce returning for at least one more season with the Kansas City Chiefs could be going up.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on Sunday that Kelce "has not made a firm decision on his future. However, he has been in touch with his team about a potential return and Kansas City wants him back." Rapoport added that "the plan is to reconvene after the Super Bowl to finalize a plan that works for both parties."

The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported on Saturday that the feeling among many people close to Kelce is he "could" continue his NFL career in 2026.

"A final decision has yet to be made," Russini wrote, "but a 14th season is looking more real than ever."

An answer would seem likely to come sooner than later so Kelce can give the Chiefs time to plan for free agency and the draft if he decides to retire.

After weighing retirement last offseason before deciding to return, Kelce's future has been a big topic of conversation over the past 12 months. He has certainly set up his post-football life with a thriving media career, while also planning a wedding with Taylor Swift.

Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said on NFL Network's Good Morning Football last month that the organization is hopeful Kelce returns, but they won't put pressure on him to make a quick decision one way or another.

This is going to be an interesting offseason for the Chiefs, even if Kelce returns. Patrick Mahomes is rehabbing from a torn ACL and LCL suffered in Week 15. The estimated recovery time is nine months, putting him right up against the start of the regular season if there are no setbacks.

Kansas City will be picking in the top 10 of the 2026 draft, so there is the potential to add an impact player at a position of need.

Kelce did have a solid rebound year after looking like he was slowing down in 2024. The 36-year-old led the Chiefs in receptions (76), receiving yards (851) and tied for the team lead in touchdown receptions (five).

The days of Kelce being a game-changing pass-catcher are likely over, but he can be a valuable contributor to the offense if he wants to keep playing.