Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid recently shared big news about tight end Travis Kelce, who’s preparing for what could be his final NFL season.
After a tough Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Feb. 9, 2025, Kelce, 35, chose not to retire and has been “training like crazy” to get ready for next season. Reid revealed the update during a media session on April 1, stressing Kelce’s commitment to returning to the field.
Kelce Gears Up for Potential Farewell Season
Reid said Kelce is all-in as he gears up for the 2025 season — one that could mark the end of a legendary career. The future Hall of Famer made his decision to return less than a week after the Super Bowl, according to Reid, showing his continued love for football and loyalty to the team.
At 35, Kelce is still one of the top tight ends in the league, though last season brought challenges.
With Kansas City’s receiving corps hit by injuries — Rashee Rice, Marquise Brown and Isiah Pacheco all missed time — Kelce carried a heavy load on offense. He led the team with 133 targets but finished with career lows in receiving yards (823) and touchdowns (three). The Chiefs are now working to better support him in the offense while also managing his workload.
Reid admitted that limiting Kelce’s snaps could help, especially since he played 940 snaps last season — 84% of the Chiefs’ offensive plays. Known for his work ethic and drive to stay on the field, Kelce may have to adjust. “I’ll see when he comes back and see where he’s at,” Reid said. “He’s learning when to come out when he needs it.”
Kelce’s performance in Super Bowl 59 showed some of the offense’s struggles. He finished with just four catches for 39 yards and didn’t have a first-half reception — the first time that’s happened in his postseason career. The Eagles’ defense took advantage of the Chiefs’ offensive line, sacking Patrick Mahomes six times and throwing off the team’s rhythm.
After the game, Kelce said on his “New Heights” podcast that he had considered retirement. But by early March, he confirmed he’d be back.
“The biggest thing is that I love playing the game of football,” Kelce said. “I still feel like I can play at a high level and possibly at a higher level than I did last year.”
With Kelce back, the Chiefs have moved to reinforce the receiving group. They re-signed Brown and will enter 2025 with Brown, Rice and rookie Xavier Worthy as their top three wideouts. The team may also add another pass-catcher in the draft to help take pressure off Kelce.
Chiefs owner Clark Hunt welcomed the news of Kelce’s return, saying, “He loves the game, he loves his teammates, and I know coach Reid is excited to have his energy back in the building for at least one more year.”
Kelce remains focused during a tough offseason training program, aiming for another strong season and another title run. Whether this is his final year or not, his passion for football is still going strong.