Andy Reid Hints at Travis Kelce's Chiefs Future

Chiefs coach's comments suggest tight end may return for 2026 season.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 9:39pm

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Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid provided an optimistic update on the future of star tight end Travis Kelce, hinting that the future Hall of Famer may return for the 2026 NFL season. Reid emphasized that there is ongoing communication between the team and Kelce, indicating the 33-year-old is leaning towards playing another year.

Why it matters

Kelce's potential retirement has been a major storyline for the Chiefs this offseason. As one of the best tight ends in NFL history, his decision will have major implications for the team's offense and championship aspirations next season.

The details

In his comments, Reid said "as long as there's communication, I'm good" regarding Kelce's future, suggesting the two sides are working together on a potential return. The coach emphasized he is not trying to "put words in his mouth" and is giving Kelce space to make his decision, but the upbeat tone implies optimism about Kelce suiting up again in 2026.

  • On February 22, 2026, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid provided an update on Travis Kelce's future.

The players

Andy Reid

The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has led the team to multiple Super Bowl appearances and wins during his tenure.

Travis Kelce

The star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, considered one of the best in the NFL and a future Hall of Famer.

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What they’re saying

“I've said this before, as long as there's communication, I'm good. That means people want to move forward, and that's where I think Trav is. I'm not trying to put words in his mouth at all, and I try to give him some space. He's been doing this a long time. He can sort all that out as he goes forward, but we're proceeding with that, and there is communication.”

— Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs

What’s next

Kelce is expected to make a decision on his NFL future in the coming weeks as free agency approaches. The Chiefs will wait to hear from their star tight end before determining their offseason plans.

The takeaway

Reid's positive comments suggest the Chiefs are optimistic about Kelce returning for the 2026 season, which would be a major boost for their offense and Super Bowl aspirations. Kelce's decision will be a closely watched storyline as the offseason progresses.