Travis Kelce Isn't Done Yet — Chiefs Star Commits to Another Season
Travis Kelce, 2024. Photo by H7ndrx under CC0 1.0.
After months of speculation, Travis Kelce finally put the retirement rumors to bed — and Chiefs fans can breathe a sigh of relief. The Kansas City tight end, 35, confirmed he's returning for another season, determined to make up for what he calls a disappointing finish to last year.
Coming Back With a Vengeance
Kelce dropped the news on "The Pat McAfee Show" on Feb. 27, 2025. According to PEOPLE, McAfee read a text from Kelce, in which the three-time Super Bowl® champ confirmed his intention to return: "Gonna try and get to the best shape I've been this offseason and get back to the mountaintop.”
Kelce made it clear that last season left him with unfinished business. "Got a real bad taste in my mouth with how I played in that last game and how I got the guys ready for battle. I can't go out like that!!!!" he said, according to PEOPLE.
Kelce's performance in Super Bowl LIX against the Philadelphia Eagles® on Feb. 9, 2025, didn't meet his own high standards, and it seems to be driving him to come back stronger. Kansas City Chiefs® quarterback Patrick Mahomes told reporters after the game that he wasn't sure if Kelce would return, but added, "He's given so much to this team and to the NFL. ... He's been such a joy, not only for me to work with, but for people to watch," according to PEOPLE.
Money Talks — But It's Not Everything
Kelce's decision wasn't purely emotional. Financial pressure played a part too. He's heading into the final season of a two-year, $34 million deal, which includes an $11.5 million roster bonus due on March 15, 2025. If he stays with the team, he'll carry a cap hit of more than $19 million — a significant figure even for someone of Kelce's caliber.
On a March episode of his "New Heights" podcast, Kelce's brother, Jason Kelce, bluntly asked, "Why are you going to go out there, risk injury, and make less money than you could make not playing football?" as reported by The U.S. Sun. Travis admitted it crossed his mind. "That was kinda the one I had to juggle right there," he said. But in the end, the love of the game outweighed the financial angle.
Super Bowl Loss Lit a Fire
Travis' decision to return wasn't just about money — it was about redemption. On the March 5, 2025, episode of "New Heights," Travis called the Super Bowl loss an "all-time low" and admitted it factored heavily into his decision to come back, according to PEOPLE. "I don’t think it was my best outing," he continued. "I think I let my guys down in a lot more moments than I helped them." That feeling of letting down his team seems to have motivated him to give it another shot.
Taylor Swift Didn't Sway the Decision
Rumors swirled that Travis might retire to spend more time with girlfriend Taylor Swift, but he shot that down. While the couple's relationship remains solid, Travis said he trusted his gut when making the decision. "It's just off a feel," he said on "New Heights," according to PEOPLE. "I'm not a big measure the pros and cons (guy) ... I pulled the trigger as soon as I knew that feeling."
What's Next for Travis?
Travis' contract runs through the 2025 season, so this could be his final ride — or maybe not. Either way, he's locked in and ready to chase another championship. If anyone can turn last year's disappointment into motivation, it's Travis Kelce. Chiefs Kingdom, buckle up — this could get interesting.
References: Travis Kelce Makes NFL Retirement Decision After Months of Speculation | Travis Kelce admits $19 million financial pressure was behind Kansas City Chiefs retirement decision | Travis Kelce Shares 'Biggest Factor' in Decision to Return to NFL, Says 2025 Super Bowl Defeat Was 'All-Time Low'
