Travis Kelce has never been one to shy away from the spotlight-or the big moments. But as the Kansas City Chiefs’ season winds down, the veteran tight end finds himself staring down one of the biggest decisions of his career: whether to run it back for a 14th season or call it a career after an all-time great run.
At 36 years old and set to hit free agency once the season wraps, Kelce is at a pivotal crossroads. While a return to Kansas City remains on the table, there’s growing buzz that we may have seen the last of No. 87 in a Chiefs uniform-or any uniform, for that matter.
Rob Gronkowski, who knows a thing or two about walking away from the game, weighed in on the situation during an appearance on Up & Adams, saying, “My gut tells me about Travis Kelce is that he will not be back next year.” That’s not just idle speculation from a former rival-it’s a sentiment that carries weight coming from someone who played the position at a Hall of Fame level and understands the physical and emotional toll it takes to keep going.
Kelce is wrapping up his 13th NFL season, and what a ride it’s been. His résumé speaks for itself: 1,071 receptions, 12,948 receiving yards, and 82 touchdowns across 189 games.
He’s been selected to 10 Pro Bowls, named an All-Pro four times, and, of course, has three Super Bowl rings to his name. He’s not just one of the best tight ends of his generation-he’s in the conversation for the best ever.
But this season has brought new challenges. With Patrick Mahomes suffering a torn ACL that’s sidelined him for the rest of the year-and potentially into next season-the future in Kansas City suddenly feels a little more uncertain.
Mahomes and Kelce have been one of the most dynamic duos in football, a quarterback-tight end combo that defined an era. Without his quarterback, the idea of pressing on may not carry the same appeal.
That’s not to say Kelce can’t still play. Even at 36, he remains a matchup nightmare-too fast for linebackers, too strong for safeties, and still one of the smartest route-runners in the league. But after over a decade of taking hits over the middle and carrying the weight of championship expectations, it’s fair to wonder if he’s ready to move on.
Whatever Kelce decides, his legacy is secure. He’s already cemented his place in Canton. The only question now is whether he wants to add one more chapter-or close the book on a legendary career.