Travis Kelce’s Future: Jason Offers Insight, But the Decision Will Take Time
Thirteen seasons in the NFL is no small feat. Just ask Jason Kelce, who knows firsthand what it takes to last that long in the trenches.
When the Eagles’ 2023 campaign came to a close in a wild-card loss to the Buccaneers, Jason couldn’t hold back the tears. That emotional moment on the sideline marked the end of a remarkable career - one built on grit, leadership, and consistency.
Now, the focus shifts to his younger brother, Travis Kelce, who’s in his own 13th season - this one with the Kansas City Chiefs. And while his game remains sharp, the questions about his future are starting to surface.
He’s 36. His contract is up at the end of the season.
And with the wear and tear of over a decade in the NFL, retirement is a conversation that’s no longer hypothetical.
The topic came up Monday night on ESPN, where Scott Van Pelt sat down with Jason Kelce and asked the question many have been wondering: What does Travis do next?
Jason didn’t offer a definitive answer - because there isn’t one yet. But he did provide some heartfelt advice, drawn from his own recent experience walking away from the game.
“In my opinion, to nail that decision, you gotta step away from the game for a little bit,” Jason said. “Play these last three games, enjoy ‘em with your teammates, enjoy ‘em with your coaches.
The team is going to be different whether or not you come back next year. Then play these three games and then let it sink in.
It’ll come to you with time.”
That’s the kind of perspective that only comes from someone who’s been through it. Jason knows the emotional weight that comes with the end of a season - especially one filled with ups, downs, and uncertainty. He emphasized how important it is to let those emotions settle before making a life-changing call.
“There are so many emotions with this game right after a season, especially with the way this one’s been... and right now, it’s just too fresh. You gotta step away from it, you gotta think about it, and then it’ll come to you.”
It’s a reminder that the decision to retire isn’t just about physical readiness - it’s emotional, mental, and deeply personal.
Ryan Clark, who joined the conversation, added another layer to it. He pointed out how strange it would be if Travis Kelce’s final NFL reception didn’t come from Patrick Mahomes. That quarterback-tight end connection has been one of the most iconic duos of the past decade - a pairing built on trust, timing, and a shared understanding of the game that borders on telepathic.
And now, with Mahomes sidelined due to a season-ending injury, there’s a new wrinkle in the discussion. Could that impact Travis’s decision?
Maybe. But as Jason wisely pointed out, that’s not a call you make in the heat of the moment.
It’s something that takes time, reflection, and space.
For now, Travis Kelce has a few more games to play. And if we’ve learned anything about him over the years, it’s that he’ll give everything he’s got - whether it’s his final stretch or just another chapter in a Hall of Fame career.
Whatever comes next, the decision will be his. And when it does come, it’ll be made with clarity, not emotion. Just like his brother said.