Report: Chiefs TE Travis Kelce Considering Retirement or Playing Elsewhere

Veteran tight end weighing options after 13 seasons in Kansas City

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Star tight end Travis Kelce is considering his NFL future after 13 seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs. The 37-year-old Kelce, a 11-time Pro Bowler and 4-time All-Pro, is set to become an unrestricted free agent and could potentially play for another team or retire after this past season, his lowest-production year since 2015.

Why it matters

Kelce is one of the most dominant tight ends of his era and a key part of the Chiefs' offense. His potential departure would be a major loss for the team, which is already facing salary cap challenges. His decision could also have ripple effects on the free agent market and the future of the tight end position in Kansas City.

The details

Kelce has been weighing retirement for the past two offseasons but is now also considering playing for another team as an unrestricted free agent. The Chiefs have taken a diplomatic "wait-and-see" approach, acknowledging they have prepared for either scenario. Kelce's representatives are expected to talk with multiple teams about his future.

  • Kelce will turn 37 years old in October 2026.
  • Kelce is set to become an unrestricted free agent after finishing his two-year, $34.25 million extension this past season.
  • The Chiefs GM said he would be meeting with Kelce's representatives following the NFL Scouting Combine in late February 2026.

The players

Travis Kelce

A 37-year-old tight end who has spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs, making 11 Pro Bowls and being named a 4-time first-team All-Pro.

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has said the team is prepared for either Kelce's retirement or return.

Andy Reid

The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has said he is in regular contact with Kelce about his future.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We've kind of prepared for either scenario. We're trying to position ourselves that either way, we have a plan moving forward.”

— Brett Veach, Chiefs General Manager (Kansas City Star)

“Travis is the best, he's an icon and hopefully he comes back. We'll just kind of let that process play out. It's not your typical 27-year-old first-time-in-free agency.”

— Brett Veach, Chiefs General Manager (Kansas City Star)

What’s next

The Chiefs are expected to continue discussions with Kelce's representatives in the coming weeks to determine his plans for the 2026 season and beyond.

The takeaway

Kelce's potential departure would be a major loss for the Chiefs, who have built their offense around the future Hall of Fame tight end for over a decade. His decision could have significant implications for the team's roster and salary cap management, as well as the future of the tight end position in Kansas City.