Travis Kelce on returning to Chiefs in 2025: ‘It really wasn’t that hard of a decision’

Following the Kansas City Chiefs’ loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl, retirement rumors swirled around Travis Kelce. Speculation grew about his future in the NFL and whether he could step away instead of run it back for his 13th season.

Ultimately, Kelce chose to keep playing. He addressed that decision with reporters this week and said it didn’t take too much thought.

Kelce has been a centerpiece of the Kansas City offense alongside Patrick Mahomes and helped the franchise to three Super Bowls in his first 12 seasons in the league. But as he turned 35 – and, of course, continued his relationship with Taylor Swift – some thought he could hand up his pads. Instead, he’s ready to keep going.

“I love football,” Kelce said. “I don’t think I really thought about it that much. … I love coming in to work every single day.

“It wasn’t a very tough one for me. I know I’m getting older, but at the same time I still feel like I’ve got a lot I can prove in this league. With that being said, it really wasn’t that hard of a decision for me.”

Kelce’s numbers dropped a bit this season as he totaled a career-low 823 yards and three touchdowns. But his connection with Mahomes remained strong and was a big reason Kansas City was able to have a shot at a historic third consecutive Super Bowl title. While the Chiefs had some questions at the wide receiver position, those players still get open as defenses continue to key in on Kelce.

Kansas City struggled mightily in Super Bowl LIX, though, and eventually fell to the Eagles 40-22. It was a tough way to go out for the Chiefs, who had a rough go on both sides of the ball as they fell short of pulling off the unprecedented third championship.

Amid the rumors, Travis Kelce texted Pat McAfee and confirmed he planned to return in 2025. He pointed out the way last year ended – and said there’s some unfinished business.

“I’m coming back, for sure,” Kelce told McAfee in a text that was read on-air. “Gonna try and get to the best shape I’ve been this offseason and get back to the mountaintop. 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!!!!”