Chiefs Aim to Retain Star Tight End Kelce for 14th Season

Retirement rumors swirl around veteran as Chiefs face critical offseason

Feb. 8, 2026 at 7:47pm

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The Kansas City Chiefs are hoping to bring back veteran tight end Travis Kelce for the 2026 season, his 14th in the NFL. Kelce, 36, has not yet decided if he will retire or return, but the Chiefs have made it clear they want him back despite the team's disappointing 6-11 season and uncertainty around quarterback Patrick Mahomes' health. The sides plan to discuss a new contract after the Super Bowl, as Kelce's current deal expires. Kelce has been a key part of the Chiefs' success in recent years, but the team's cap issues could force some tough decisions this offseason.

Why it matters

Kelce is one of the most dominant tight ends in the NFL and a crucial part of the Chiefs' offense. His potential retirement would be a major loss for the team as they look to bounce back from a down year and remain a contender in the AFC. The Chiefs' ability to retain Kelce could have a significant impact on their outlook for the 2026 season.

The details

The Chiefs are making it known they would like Kelce, 36, to return for the 2026 season, his 14th in the NFL. Kelce has not yet decided if he will retire or come back, but the two sides plan to discuss a potential new contract after the Super Bowl, as Kelce's current two-year extension is set to expire. The Chiefs are facing some cap issues this offseason, which could force them to make tough decisions. Kelce had another productive season in 2025, but his numbers were down slightly from previous years as the Chiefs struggled to a 6-11 record and missed the playoffs. There is also uncertainty around the availability of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who suffered a season-ending injury.

  • The Chiefs and Kelce plan to discuss a potential new contract after Super Bowl 2026.
  • Kelce's current two-year contract extension with the Chiefs expires after the 2025 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. Kelce is one of the most dominant players at his position and a key part of the Chiefs' offense.

Patrick Mahomes

The Chiefs' star quarterback who suffered a season-ending injury in 2025, creating uncertainty around his availability for the 2026 season.

Eric Bieniemy

The Chiefs' new offensive coordinator, replacing Matt Nagy. Kelce has a strong relationship with Bieniemy and is excited to work with him again.

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What they’re saying

“I can't wait to see him back in the building, man. He's one of my favorite coaches of all-time, one of my favorite people of all time. I've had so many unbelievable growing moments under him as a player, as a person, and I just love the guy. And it's gonna be awesome to see him back in the building and see him back wearing the Chiefs logo, baby.”

— Travis Kelce (New Heights Podcast)

What’s next

The Chiefs and Kelce will discuss a potential new contract after Super Bowl 2026, as Kelce's current deal expires. The team's ability to retain Kelce could hinge on their ability to navigate the salary cap this offseason.

The takeaway

Kelce's future with the Chiefs is a critical storyline this offseason, as the team looks to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign. Keeping the veteran tight end in the fold would provide stability and continuity for the offense, but the Chiefs' cap situation could complicate their efforts to re-sign him.