Mahomes on Kelce’s Future: “I Cherish Every Season” as Chiefs Fight to Stay Alive
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Patrick Mahomes knows what he has in Travis Kelce - and he’s not taking it for granted.
In the aftermath of the Chiefs’ tough loss to the Houston Texans, Mahomes was asked about the possibility that this could be Kelce’s final season in the NFL. His response wasn’t just about football. It was about appreciation, legacy, and the bond between two players who’ve spent years rewriting the record books together.
“Every season that I’ve had with him these last few years, I try to cherish because you never know,” Mahomes said.
And that’s not just lip service. Kelce, now deep into his second decade in the league, came into this season in excellent shape - and it’s shown.
He’s still producing at an elite level, still creating mismatches, still moving the chains when the Chiefs need it most. According to Mahomes, Kelce has earned the right to decide what comes next on his own terms.
“He got himself in great shape this year and he’s played great football,” Mahomes said. “He’ll have the option to do whatever he wants to do after this season.”
But before any decisions get made about the future, there’s still a season to finish - and a playoff push that’s hanging in the balance. The Chiefs’ postseason hopes have taken a hit, and the margin for error is getting razor thin. Still, Mahomes made it clear: Kelce isn’t slowing down, and neither is this locker room.
“I know one thing is he’ll give everything he has the rest of this season to try and give us a chance to make a playoff run,” Mahomes said. “We know the chances are getting lower and lower, but I know the guys on this team are going to give everything they have every opportunity they get.”
That mindset is what’s defined this Chiefs era - the relentless belief that any game, any drive, any play can be the turning point. And if you’re looking for consistency in a season that’s had its share of turbulence, look no further than Kelce.
On Sunday, he extended the longest active streak in the NFL by recording a catch in his 187th consecutive game. That’s not just a stat - it’s a testament to his durability, preparation, and the trust Mahomes has in him, week in and week out.
Of course, not every play goes their way. Late in the game against Houston, a pass intended for Kelce was deflected off his hands and intercepted - Mahomes’ third pick of the day. It was a rare miscue between two of the most in-sync players in the league.
But even in the wake of that play, Mahomes didn’t hesitate to double down on his faith in Kelce.
“I’m going to go to those guys in big moments,” Mahomes said. “Those guys have made big plays in Super Bowls, they’ve made big plays in AFC Championship Games.”
And that’s the thing - this isn’t just a quarterback and a tight end. It’s one of the most productive, clutch, and iconic duos in NFL history. They’ve built their legacy on trust, timing, and the ability to rise when the stakes are highest.
Whether this is Kelce’s final ride or not, Mahomes is treating every snap like it could be the last they take together. And if you’ve followed the Chiefs over the last several years, you know what that connection has meant - not just to Kansas City, but to the game itself.
For now, the focus is on the next game, the next opportunity, and keeping the playoff hopes alive. But make no mistake: Mahomes and Kelce are still writing their story - and there’s still time for one more chapter.