Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is currently in the last year of his contract, with speculation that the 2025 season could be his final one. At 36, Kelce acknowledges a significant decision lies ahead, but he assures he won’t leave the team uncertain about his plans.

“I want to give the Chiefs a good opportunity, whether I come back or not – or whether they want me back or not,” Kelce stated, as reported by ESPN. “I’d like to make that decision before they’ve got to get draft picks and free agency opens to fill the roster appropriately.”

Kelce reports that he will not concentrate on retirement until the end of the season. With his strong performance so far in his 13th season, he leads the Chiefs with 50 catches for 631 yards and four touchdowns. Kelce holds the title of Kansas City’s all-time leader in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, and ranks third among tight ends in all-time receiving yards with 12,782.

Kelce has claimed three Super Bowl titles, making him the leading postseason tight end in NFL history with 178 receptions. Through his successful partnership with quarterback Patrick Mahomes, he holds the record for the most touchdowns by a duo in NFL playoff history.

Recently, Kelce confirmed his return for the 2025 season post-Super Bowl LIX, emphasizing a desire to continue playing following a disappointing season end. He remains committed to giving the Chiefs everything he has, stating he loves football and feels capable of performing at an even higher level.

“I love so many people in Kansas City, both in that facility, in the community, and it’s home for me now. I don’t want to leave that life yet. I put in a lot of hard work and I put in a lot of focus into being the best that I can for K.C.”

With aspirations of reaching the Super Bowl yet again, Kelce aims to focus solely on football rather than retirement, as he approaches the latter stages of his career.