Chiefs May Not Be Favorites to Land Travis Kelce Again

Multiple teams are interested in signing the veteran tight end, raising questions about his future in Kansas City.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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According to reports, veteran Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is motivated to play another NFL season, but his representatives are expected to talk to multiple teams, casting doubt on whether he will remain with the Chiefs. Chiefs general manager Brett Veach acknowledged the uncertainty, saying the team has "prepared for either scenario" of Kelce returning or retiring.

Why it matters

Kelce has spent his entire 13-year career with the Chiefs, becoming a key part of the team's dynastic run over the past decade. His potential departure would be a major loss for the franchise and its star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who has relied heavily on Kelce as a top target.

The details

Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that while the Chiefs remain "very much in the mix" to re-sign Kelce, "multiple" other teams are interested in signing the 36-year-old tight end. Chiefs GM Brett Veach said the team has had "great dialogue" with Kelce and his representatives, but acknowledged there is no guarantee he will return to Kansas City for the 2026-27 season.

  • On Wednesday, March 11, NFL free agency officially kicks in.
  • On Sunday, March 8, Russini reported that Kelce appears motivated to return for a 14th season.

The players

Travis Kelce

A 36-year-old tight end who has spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs, making 11 straight Pro Bowls.

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, who acknowledged the uncertainty around Kelce's future with the team.

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has relied heavily on Kelce as a top target during the team's dynastic run over the past decade.

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What they’re saying

“Based on conversations with several teams, TE Travis Kelce appears motivated to return to play a 14th season. The Chiefs remain very much in the mix to re-sign the three-time Super Bowl champion and four-time All-Pro.”

— Dianna Russini, Reporter (The Athletic)

“We've kind of prepared for either scenario. Travis is the best. He's an icon. Hopefully, he comes back, and we'll just kind of let that process play out.”

— Brett Veach, General Manager (The Athletic)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.