Is Travis Kelce retiring in 2026? Chiefs TE gives interesting update

Adam Schultz

Is Travis Kelce retiring in 2026? Chiefs TE gives interesting update image

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce will be the main storyline for the franchise in the coming weeks and months as we eagerly await the decision on his future.

Having played 13 years, Kelce is clearly towards the end of his career, and some thought he would walk away after last season. But he returned and was still productive, surpassing 800 receiving yards on the year.

But does he have enough gas left in the tank to go through another offseason that includes OTAs, training camp, and then a full slate of 17 games plus potential playoffs?

Travis discussed on the New Heights podcast what would need to happen for him to return in 2026.

“If my body can heal up and rest up and I can feel confident that I can go out there and give it another 18, 20, 21-week run, I think I would do it in a heartbeat,” Kelce said. "I think right now, it's just finding that answer and see how the body feels after the game when it all settles down."

More: Should Chiefs have any reason to be optimistic about 2026 season?

Kelce still key to Chiefs plans

The fact that a 36-year-old player is still one of the better players on an offense isn't ideal.

Kelce led the Chiefs in yards, receptions, targets and was joint-first in touchdowns this season. So, replacing him if he were to retire is going to be tough.

Andy Reid stated that the team and Kelce had time when it came to discussing his future, so in an ideal scenario, the next couple of weeks will play out, and Travis will work towards a decision.

Exactly what that will be is unknown, but we now know what Travis is thinking when it comes to going around for a 14th NFL season in 2026.

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