Tom Brady Addresses Travis Kelce's Greatness Amid Retirement Rumors

Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Tom Brady Addresses Travis Kelce's Greatness Amid Retirement Rumors

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit K. | Last updated Jan 15, 2026 12:16 PM ET

Seven-time Super Bowl champion and current Fox analyst Tom Brady weighed in on Travis Kelce as retirement rumors continue to swirl.

When asked what advice he would offer the Kansas City Chiefs legend, Brady did not hesitate, offering strong praise for the veteran tight end’s impact and longevity.

"He's a stud, man," Brady said of Kelce. "What a great player he's been, and I mean, he can still play. He looked great this year. I thought it was one of the best years he's had in a long time. But I love watching him play. I love his personality, I love his, I love his temperament, I love his competitiveness. Um, he's one of the all-time greats that ever played this game."

Tom Brady gives Travis Kelce his flowers, calling him one of the “all-time greats.” pic.twitter.com/UWogpU9Xje
— Entertainment Tonight (@etnow) January 14, 2026

Kelce, meanwhile, remains unsure about his future after the Kansas City Chiefs closed a difficult season with a 14-12 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. Speaking to the media, he said he does not know how long it will take to decide whether he will return for a 14th season or begin preparing for retirement.

"Who knows?" Kelce said in early January, per ESPN. "Either it hits me quick or I've got to take some time. Last year was a little bit easier. I think I knew right away I wanted to kind of give this one [year] a shot. We'll see."

Despite Kansas City’s 6-11 finish, Kelce remained a focal point of the offense. He led the team with 108 targets, 76 catches, 851 yards and five touchdowns (tied). He also became just the third tight end in NFL history to reach 13,000 career receiving yards.

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) leaves the field after the final game of the 2025 regular season.Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Kelce plans to reflect with family before making a decision, likely before free agency in March.

"I've got so much love for this team, this organization, and the people here. I'll spend some time with them, go through exit meetings, and get close to the family and figure things out," Kelce said.

Not everyone expects Kelce to walk away, and a return is possible. Meanwhile, Kansas City looks toward a reset offseason ahead.

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

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