Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has decided to return for a 14th NFL season rather than retire, multiple reports indicated Monday, quashing speculation that he would step away to focus on his upcoming wedding to pop superstar Taylor Swift.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported that Kelce is expected to re-sign with the Chiefs, turning down potential offers from other teams despite interest and more lucrative possibilities elsewhere. The decision comes after months of uncertainty following the Chiefs’ disappointing 6-11 campaign in 2025, which ended without a playoff appearance for the first time since 2012.
Kelce, 36, had been noncommittal about his future throughout the offseason. His current two-year contract, which averaged $17.125 million annually and made him the league’s highest-paid tight end at the time, expired in early March. The tight end had previously told reporters after the season that he would inform the team of his plans by early March, leaving open the possibility of retirement amid his high-profile relationship with Swift.
ESPN Chiefs reporter Nate Taylor said earlier this month that all indications pointed to Kelce returning, telling a Kansas City radio show, “He’s coming back, guys. Every indication I’ve gotten is that Travis Kelce is looking forward to coming back.”
The Chiefs endured significant challenges last season, including a season-ending torn ACL suffered by quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Despite the setbacks, Kelce expressed lingering passion for the game and a desire to help the franchise rebound.
Speculation had swirled that Kelce might retire to prioritize personal life, including his planned June wedding to Swift and potential post-football opportunities in media or business. Kelce has co-hosted the popular “New Heights” podcast with his brother Jason and built a strong off-field brand. However, reports emphasized his commitment to one more season in Kansas City, where he has spent his entire 13-year career, won three Super Bowls and established himself as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history.
Chiefs coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach have publicly expressed support for Kelce’s return, though salary cap constraints could influence the terms of any new deal. Kelce has hinted in interviews that the sour taste from the 2025 finish motivated him to consider another run.
The tight end’s return bolsters Kansas City’s hopes of reclaiming dominance in the AFC, even as questions linger about Mahomes’ recovery timeline and the team’s roster adjustments.
Kelce’s decision underscores his dedication to the Chiefs organization over other opportunities, including those tied to his evolving personal life.
Travis Kelce is NOT leaving just yet, per @RapSheet
Kelce is expected to return to the Chiefs for another season 🔥 pic.twitter.com/j3JEsT8DN5
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 9, 2026
But the good news, the Chiefs star says he’s not leaving the team to play his 14th NFL season with another team.
Refreshing news for the fans of the Kansas City Chiefs.
