Chiefs Coach Andy Reid Addresses Travis Kelce's Uncertain NFL Future

Kelce's contract with the Kansas City Chiefs ends next month, raising questions about his potential retirement after 13 seasons.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 10:12pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a recent press conference, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid discussed the ongoing communication with star tight end Travis Kelce about his NFL future. Kelce's contract with the Chiefs expires in March 2026, and Reid emphasized that no retirement decision has been made yet, giving Kelce space to sort out his personal plans. Kelce, 36, is widely regarded as one of the best tight ends in NFL history, having won three Super Bowls and made 10 Pro Bowl appearances during his tenure with the Chiefs.

Why it matters

Kelce's potential retirement would be a significant loss for the Chiefs, who are coming off a disappointing 6-11 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2014. As one of the team's most iconic players, Kelce's decision could have major implications for the franchise's future direction and roster planning.

The details

During the press conference, Reid stated that there is ongoing communication between the team and Kelce about his future, but he is not trying to influence Kelce's personal decision. Kelce's mother, Donna Kelce, also commented that she wants her son to do what he feels comfortable with, and the family will support whatever choice he makes.

  • Kelce's contract with the Kansas City Chiefs expires in March 2026.

The players

Andy Reid

The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has led the team to three Super Bowl wins and eight AFC West division titles during Kelce's tenure.

Travis Kelce

A 36-year-old tight end who has played for the Kansas City Chiefs for 13 seasons, winning three Super Bowls and making 10 Pro Bowl appearances.

Donna Kelce

The mother of Travis Kelce, who has expressed support for her son's personal decision about his NFL future.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“There is communication. That's the main thing. That means people want to move forward. I think that's where Trav is.”

— Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs (People)

“I'm not trying to put words in his mouth at all, and I try to give him some space here. He's been doing this a long time, and he can sort all that out as he goes forward. We're proceeding with that, and there is communication.”

— Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs (People)

“I just want him to do what he feels comfortable doing. He's gotta talk to people in his life to decide what he wants to do. So I'm not sure. We'll see what happens!”

— Donna Kelce (Parade)

What’s next

The Chiefs and Kelce's family will continue to communicate about his future plans, with a decision expected to be made before his contract expires in March 2026.

The takeaway

Kelce's potential retirement would be a significant loss for the Chiefs, who have relied on his elite performance and leadership for over a decade. However, the team and Kelce's family are prioritizing his personal comfort and choice, recognizing the weight of his decision after such a storied career.