As the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for yet another Super Bowl showdown, all eyes are on Travis Kelce—but not just for his performance on the field. A new report from NFL Insider Ian Rapoport suggests that Kelce is genuinely undecided about whether he’ll return for another season. Despite recently saying he had “a lot of good football left,” it appears the 35-year-old tight end might let Sunday’s outcome sway his final decision.
Is Travis Kelce Really Considering Retirement?
Kelce is currently in the middle of a two-year contract worth $14 million per season. But, the tight end has made it clear that football isn’t his only passion. With a booming podcast, TV hosting gigs, and a high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift, he’s already built a life that extends far beyond the gridiron. Plus, he’s been candid about the toll of the game, admitting that thoughts of retirement cross his mind “more than anyone could ever imagine.”
If he does decide to hang up his cleats, Kelce will make his announcement before free agency begins on March 12. Chiefs fans were likely feeling pretty confident when Kelce reassured everyone earlier this month that he planned on playing for at least a few more years. But now? The door to retirement seems slightly more open than he initially let on.
Andy Reid’s Take: Could Coaching Be in Kelce’s Future?
If Kelce does decide to step away, he might not be leaving the football world entirely. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid recently praised Kelce’s football IQ and natural ability to lead younger players. In an interview with The Herd With Colin Cowherd, Reid said, “Travis would be a heck of a football coach. He’s able to get up there and explain things and teach these young guys what he sees and feels.”
Reid has worked with Kelce since he was drafted by Kansas City in 2013, and the two have built a close bond. Having coached Kelce’s older brother, Jason, during his time with the Eagles, Reid had an idea of the kind of player Travis would become. Over the years, their strong connection has helped the Chiefs maximize Kelce’s talents, even when opposing defenses double-team him.
While Kelce hasn’t publicly expressed interest in coaching, Reid’s endorsement certainly adds an intriguing layer to his potential post-NFL career. And with Kelce’s knack for entertainment—including his Amazon game show and upcoming FX role—he may have plenty of options to choose from.
For now, Kelce is focused on Super Bowl LIX and securing a third straight championship for the Chiefs. Whether this game marks the end of his NFL career or just another milestone remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: whatever Kelce decides, he won’t be disappearing from the spotlight anytime soon.
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