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Chiefs Star Travis Kelce Weighs Free Agency Options
36-year-old tight end expected to return for 14th NFL season, but may not stay in Kansas City.
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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Veteran tight end Travis Kelce is set to become a free agent for the first time in his career, and reports indicate he may explore options outside of the Kansas City Chiefs. While Kelce is "expected to return to play for a 14th season," his agents are "expected to talk to multiple teams" as the new league year approaches, hinting that the 36-year-old could finish his career elsewhere. The Chiefs have been making cap-saving moves this offseason, raising questions about whether they can afford to keep Kelce.
Why it matters
Kelce has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs' offense for over a decade, helping the team win a Super Bowl and make multiple playoff runs. His potential departure would be a major loss for Kansas City, both on the field and in terms of the team's star power and connection to the community. This story highlights the challenges NFL teams face in retaining aging superstars as they navigate the salary cap.
The details
After confirming last year that he would return for the 2025 season, Kelce has been more coy about his plans for 2026. Chiefs GM Brett Veach said the team is preparing for scenarios with and without Kelce, who is set to become a free agent on March 15. The Chiefs have already made some cost-cutting moves this offseason, including releasing OT Jawaan Taylor and trading CB Trent McDuffie, suggesting they may not be able to afford to keep Kelce at his current price tag.
- Kelce confirmed in late February 2025 that he would play in the 2025 season.
- Kelce is set to become a free agent on March 15, 2026.
The players
Travis Kelce
A 36-year-old tight end who has spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs, helping the team win a Super Bowl and make multiple playoff runs.
Brett Veach
The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has said the team is preparing for scenarios with and without Kelce on the roster.
Patrick Mahomes
The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has had his contract restructured to open up salary cap space for the team.
What’s next
Kelce's decision on where he will play in 2026 is expected to come in the days leading up to the start of free agency on March 15.
The takeaway
Kelce's potential departure from the Chiefs would be a significant loss for the team, both on the field and in terms of their connection to the community. This story highlights the difficult decisions NFL teams face in retaining aging superstars as they navigate the salary cap.
