Nearly two months after the Kansas City Chiefs’ disappointing season ended, the team still doesn’t know the future of tight end Travis Kelce.
Kelce will turn 37 in October and may decide to retire. However, after another productive season, returning to the NFL for a 14th season is also an option.
advertise
“We’re prepared for both scenarios,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said Tuesday at the NFL Scouting Combine, via Sam McDowell of the Kansas City Star.
Veach said the team, specifically coach Andy Reid, had “a great conversation” with Kelce’s representatives. The team plans to have more discussions with them at the combine.
Veach made it clear the team wants Kelce back.
“Travis is the best, he’s an icon and hopefully he can come back,” Veach said. “We’ll let the process continue.”
Travis Kelce has yet to announce whether he will return for the 2026 NFL season. (Photo by Johnny Izquierdo/Getty Images)
(Johnny Isquierdo via Getty Images)
Kelce’s 2026 salary cap hit of $19.8 million, which includes $12.5 million in roster bonuses, will presumably be discussed. But the Chiefs first need to know if he will return.
advertise
The Chiefs have a lot of questions this offseason. Patrick Mahomes is recovering from a torn ACL. Veach talked about being more explosive in the running game as a way to take the pressure off Mahomes this season. There’s also the question of Kelce and whether he can return after throwing for 851 yards and five touchdowns last season. Kelce may no longer be the dominant force he was in his prime, but he’s still productive, even at an age when most tight ends have retired or completely declined.
The Chiefs will wait for answers. The league year starts on March 11 and they can’t wait too long.
