Chiefs and Tight End Travis Kelce Nearing New Deal for 14th Season

The 36-year-old All-Pro is expected to return to Kansas City for another year with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Kansas City Chiefs and veteran tight end Travis Kelce are close to finalizing a new contract that will keep the four-time All-Pro in Kansas City for a 14th NFL season, according to a person familiar with the negotiations. Kelce, who turns 37 in October, had contemplated retirement but now appears set to continue playing alongside quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs.

Why it matters

Kelce's return is a major boost for the Chiefs as they look to rebound from a disappointing 6-11 season and make another Super Bowl run. As one of the league's most productive tight ends, Kelce's chemistry with Mahomes is a key part of Kansas City's high-powered offense.

The details

The 36-year-old Kelce said late last season that he would make a decision on retirement by early March. With the negotiating window for free agents now open, the Chiefs and Kelce's representatives have been working on a new deal that will bring him back for the 2026 season. Kelce has myriad interests outside of football, including his podcast, acting roles, and his upcoming wedding to pop star Taylor Swift. But he remains committed to playing at least one more year with Mahomes and the Chiefs.

  • Kelce said late last season he would make a retirement decision by early March 2026.
  • The NFL's free agency negotiating window opened on March 9, 2026.

The players

Travis Kelce

A four-time All-Pro tight end who has played his entire 13-year career with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Patrick Mahomes

The Chiefs' two-time MVP quarterback who is recovering from a torn ACL suffered late last season.

Brett Veach

The Chiefs' general manager who has been in dialogue with Kelce's representatives about a new contract.

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What they’re saying

“Travis is the best, he's an icon and hopefully he comes back and we'll just let that process play out.”

— Brett Veach, Chiefs General Manager

What’s next

The Chiefs and Kelce are expected to finalize a new contract in the coming days, ahead of the start of the 2026 NFL league year on March 15.

The takeaway

Kelce's return is a major win for the Chiefs as they look to bounce back from a down year and make another Super Bowl push with their star-studded offense led by Mahomes. Kelce's chemistry with the quarterback is a key part of Kansas City's success, and his leadership and production will be crucial as the team retools its roster this offseason.