Travis Kelce finally opens up on retirement | Sports News

Travis Kelce did not dodge the query this time round. Following a devastating conclusion to the Kansas City Chiefs’ marketing campaign and a 14-12 defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders that wrapped up a disappointing 6-11 season, the 36-year-old tight finish confronted his future head-on, making it crystal clear that the selection dealing with him ranks among the many most tough of his skilled life.

Kelce wrapped up the yr hauling in 73 catches for 839 yards and 5 touchdowns, becoming a member of an elite group as solely the third tight finish in NFL historical past to surpass 13,000 profession receiving yards.

However, the closing stretch of the season, performed in Mahomes’ absence following the quarterback’s ACL harm, amplified each the bodily and mental calls for of his thirteenth yr. Kelce managed simply eight receptions over his remaining three contests and confessed the conclusion left its mark.

Speaking to the media from the locker room on Sunday, Kelce mirrored on what lies forward with evident uncertainty.

“First things first, I just love this team,” he acknowledged. “I’m proud of the way we finished this, even though it ended the way it did.

“Guys nonetheless confirmed up, gave it their all, and that is all you’ll be able to ask for, man. I’ve acquired a lot love for this staff, this group and the people right here so I’ll spend some time with them, undergo exit conferences tomorrow, get close to the household and determine issues out.”

When asked about the timing of his decision, Kelce confessed he wasn’t sure. “Who is aware of? Either it hits me fast or I’ve gotta take some time,” he stated.

“Last yr was a little bit simpler. I believe I knew immediately I needed to present this one a shot. I do not know. We’ll see.”

Kelce’s return this season was driven by a commitment to train harder than ever and demonstrate that he could still perform at an elite level well into his mid-30s. He believes he fulfilled this promise, despite the team’s disappointing performance.

“Obviously we did not do in addition to a staff, however I felt like I got here into the season ready and able to rock and roll with the appropriate intentions,” Kelce remarked.

“The ball simply did not go our means in a lot of these close video games, sadly. I believe if I do select to return back, that is one thing I’ve actually acquired to focus on, making sure I’m obtainable and prepared for these moments.”

The defeat in Las Vegas, a game characterized by field goals rather than touchdowns, epitomized the Chiefs’ broader downfall in 2025. Without Mahomes, the offense managed only 168 total yards.

However, Kelce achieved a personal milestone, surpassing the 13,000-yard mark with a five-yard reception from Shane Buechele.

For now, Kelce says his decision will be made after discussions with his loved ones. “I’ll get close to the household and determine issues out,” he concluded.

“I nonetheless have a lot of love for this recreation. If I got here back, it might be simply to reply that flame in my coronary heart for this factor.”