Over the last ten years, the Chiefs’ offense has been built on one thing: Travis Kelce operating in the middle of the field. The old tight end has earned a resumé that has positioned him among the greatest in his profession. The 36-year-old was their most reliable pass catcher, even during Kansas City’s dull 611 performance in 2025.
Future Hall of Fame Travis Kelce is preparing to take one last run in red and gold of the Chiefs. There were months of retirement speculation following Kansas City’s elimination from the playoffs and Patrick Mahomes’ serious knee injury. Recent news indicates that Kelce will continue to play.
Travis Kelce is expected to rejoin the Chiefs on a new one-year contract
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) prepares to hit the field during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025.
Travis Kelce is likely to end his career with the Kansas City Chiefs. It has been reported that the veteran tight end is expected to return and play in the NFL for the 14th season of his career. The Kansas City Chiefs and Travis Kelce are in negotiations for a one-year deal worth up to $15 million.
𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Travis Kelce and the Chiefs are working on a deal to bring him back on a one-year deal worth up to $15M, per @DMRussini
The GOAT is back 🐐 pic.twitter.com/f4PVH5Ybgt
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) March 9, 2026
The negotiations for the contract are based on the expiry of the two-year extension of Kelce to 34.25 million that the two parties had previously signed after the 2025 season. Before the decision was apparent. Kelce mentioned he needed time to consider his future. The tight end opened the door to retirement after a loss to the Las Vegas Raiders in January.
The agreement would be symbolic as long as it is done. The Kansas City Chiefs have Travis Kelce playing his 14th NFL season.The Chiefs continued to rely on Travis Kelce as the heartbeat of their offense. The longtime tight end set team records with 76 receptions, 851 receiving yards, and 424 yards after the catch during the 2025 season.
These statistics may not be as significant as his peak performance. However, they show Kelce’s reliability. The future Hall of Famer has enjoyed many seasons.The tight end was instrumental in three Super Bowl wins and numerous playoff appearances, establishing him as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history.
In the case of the Kansas City Chiefs, the reason for wanting Travis Kelce is not just a nostalgic one. The 36-year-old tight end makes an important safety valve as Patrick Mahomes is back after tearing his ACL. The offense is seeking some stability.
In the event that the expected deal is realized. Travis Kelce ending his career with the Kansas City Chiefs could soon prove to be more of a fairy tale than a mere speculation.