By Sunday 
Chiefs’ star tight end gears up for another Super Bowl run
Travis Kelce has made his decision—he’s not done yet.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ legendary tight end confirmed that he will return for the 2025 season, putting an end to speculation about his potential retirement.
Kelce Confirms His Return
ESPN’s Pat McAfee broke the news on Thursday, revealing a direct message from Kelce himself. The three-time Super Bowl champion left no room for doubt.
“I’m coming back, for sure,” Kelce wrote in a text message to McAfee, which was read live on The Pat McAfee Show.
Kelce emphasized his motivation to improve, saying, “Gonna try and get to the best shape I’ve been this offseason and get back to the mountaintop. Got a real bad taste in my mouth with how I played in that last game and how I got the guys ready for battle. I can’t go out like that!!!!”
A Decision Months in the Making
Speculation about Kelce’s future had been swirling ever since the Chiefs fell short in their bid for a Super Bowl three-peat, losing to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX.
At 34 years old, Kelce has already cemented his legacy as one of the greatest tight ends of all time. He holds multiple records, including the most receiving yards in a season by a tight end and the longest streak of 1,000-yard seasons at the position. He also ranks third in career receptions and yards among tight ends and fifth in touchdowns.
On his New Heights podcast, Kelce previously admitted that his motivation and love for the game would play a major role in his decision to continue playing.
A Star Beyond Football
Kelce’s decision to return comes despite growing opportunities outside of football. His relationship with global superstar Taylor Swift has amplified his fame far beyond the NFL, and he has successfully expanded into entertainment, hosting a game show, appearing in films, and even launching his own beer brand.
Still, football remains his priority—at least for now.
One More Ride?
Kelce signed a two-year, $34.25 million contract extension with the Chiefs in 2024, making it possible that 2025 could be his final season.
For now, though, his return is a massive boost for quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offense as they set their sights on another championship run.