Travis Kelce's future in the NFL is a hot topic as the Kansas City Chiefs' legendary tight end approaches a pivotal decision. After wrapping up the 2025 season with a home finale against the Denver Broncos on Christmas Day, Kelce, now 36, remains tight-lipped about retirement. Last year, he considered hanging up his cleats but returned for a 13th season, driven by the desire to avenge a tough Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Kelce plans to inform the Chiefs of his decision by early March, just in time for the new league year and free agency starting March 11. Chiefs owner Clark Hunt is hopeful for Kelce's return, praising his leadership and noting that even in decline, Kelce's performance remains exceptional. With 76 catches for 851 yards and five touchdowns, Kelce was still a top performer among tight ends, earning his 11th straight Pro Bowl nod.
His current two-year, $34.25 million contract, which made him the league's highest-paid tight end until recently, is set to expire. Should he choose to continue, Kelce will enter free agency, with the expectation that he'd finish his career with Kansas City.
Comparisons to Tony Gonzalez, another tight end who thrived at 36, are inevitable. Gonzalez signed a lucrative deal with the Falcons before retiring after a productive 2013 season. Kelce's situation mirrors this, as tight ends maintaining high productivity at his age are rare.
The financial landscape for tight ends has shifted, with contracts like those of George Kittle and Trey McBride setting new benchmarks. Kelce's potential 2026 compensation could draw parallels to Jonnu Smith's recent extension, averaging around $12 million annually.
Kansas City, coming off a disappointing 6-11 season, might see Kelce take a hometown discount to aid a rebound. However, any contract would likely include incentives, balancing base salary with performance bonuses, especially if the Chiefs aim to return to playoff contention.
Whether Kelce decides to retire or play another season, his legacy is secure. A first-ballot Hall of Fame induction awaits whenever he chooses to step away from the game.