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Chiefs TE Travis Kelce, 36, Makes Big Personal Revelation

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Parker Johnson | Last updated Oct 29, 2025 5:58 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs (5-3) are heading to Highmark Stadium this week to take on Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills (5-2) in a pivotal AFC showdown in Week 9 of the NFL season. The Chiefs are riding a three-game win streak, led by vintage performances from quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce in recent weeks.

Kelce, 36, is coming off his best game of the season in a memorable 28-7 home win against the Washington Commanders. The three-time Super Bowl champion recorded six catches for a season-high 99 yards and one touchdown — the 100th of his career, including the playoffs.

As Mahomes' top wide receivers Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice returned to the lineup, opposing defenses have not been able to focus as closely on Kelce, and the aging star is continuing to turn back the clock in his 13th NFL season.

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) makes a catch for a first down against Detroit Lions during the first half at Arrowhead Stadium.Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Through Week 8, Kelce ranked second among NFL tight ends in receiving yards, but the age gap between him and the rest of the top five was staggering.

Tyler Warren, Indianapolis Colts (492 yards) — 23 years old
Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs (474 yards) — 36 years old
Tucker Kraft, Green Bay Packers (469 yards) — 24 years old
Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals (421 yards) — 25 years old
Oronde Gadsden II, Los Angeles Chargers (385 yards) — 22 years old

On Wednesday's episode of their "New Heights" podcast, Jason Kelce asked his little brother his personal feelings about being at least a decade older than every other player on the list.

"I feel younger than ever," Kelce revealed with a smile.

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After last season's Super Bowl LIX disappointment, Kelce entered training camp this summer slimmed down physically and more settled in his personal life. He has not given a definitive answer on whether or not he plans to retire after this season, but he is committed to making every second count.

"We're cherishing every single one of these games, not knowing how long we'll be able to do this," Kelce told ESPN's Scott Van Pelt on Monday after facing off with veteran tight end Zach Ertz.

Kelce's best years may be behind him, but coming into the game against the Bills, he has already matched his number of receiving TDs from last season (three) and the highest yards per target mark of his career (9.9).

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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