Travis Kelce Returning to Kansas City Chiefs for 14th NFL Season

The tight end turned down higher offers from other teams to remain with the Chiefs.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Veteran tight end Travis Kelce has agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $15 million to return to the Kansas City Chiefs for his 14th NFL season. Kelce, 36, previously contemplated retirement but ultimately decided to continue playing for the team that drafted him in 2013 and helped win three Super Bowl championships.

Why it matters

Kelce's decision to stay with the Chiefs is a major boost for the team as they look to defend their recent Super Bowl titles. As one of the league's top tight ends, Kelce's continued presence will be crucial to the Chiefs' offensive success. His choice to turn down more lucrative offers from other teams also speaks to his loyalty to the organization and the city of Kansas City.

The details

According to reports, Kelce's new one-year deal with the Chiefs is worth at least $12 million and has a maximum value of $15 million. The tight end made his decision to return before the start of free agency and informed the team on Monday, March 9. Sources say Kelce turned down higher-paying offers from other teams during the free agency period in order to remain in Kansas City.

  • Kelce's previous two-year, $34.25 million extension with the Chiefs was set to expire on March 11, 2026.
  • On February 20, 2026, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid addressed Kelce's future, saying there was "communication" between the team and the tight end about moving forward.

The players

Travis Kelce

A 36-year-old tight end who has played his entire 14-year NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs, helping the team win three Super Bowl championships.

Andy Reid

The 67-year-old head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has led the team to multiple Super Bowl victories during his tenure.

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 (ESPN)

“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 (ESPN)

What’s next

The Chiefs will now focus on building their roster around Kelce for the 2026 NFL season as they aim to defend their recent Super Bowl titles.

The takeaway

Kelce's decision to return to the Chiefs for one more season demonstrates his continued commitment to the organization and the city of Kansas City. His presence will be crucial as the team looks to maintain its status as one of the NFL's elite franchises.