The Kansas City Chiefs have confirmed that Travis Kelce, the 35-year-old veteran tight end and boyfriend of singer Taylor Swift, will not retire and will play his 13th season in the 2025 NFL season. “I will try to put myself in the best way I have been in this preseason to return to the top,” Kelce said, expressing his determination to come back strong.
The speculation about Kelce’s retirement began after the Chiefs’ defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX on February 9. However, Kelce has now put those rumors to rest. The Chiefs announced the news on their social media accounts with a photograph of Kelce smiling, accompanied by the message “Year 13.” This confirmation comes after Kelce had sent a message to the ‘Pat McAfee Show’ earlier, indicating his intention to return for another season.
Kelce was visibly hurt after losing the Super Bowl to the Eagles, a game that left him feeling unfulfilled. He had shown signs that his goodbye was near, but it seems he’s not ready to hang up his boots just yet. As one of the best tight ends in the NFL, Kelce has played five Super Bowls with the Chiefs, winning three of them. Despite his impressive career, he’s not satisfied with how he performed in the last game and wants to make a comeback.
Last Tuesday, Andy Reid, the coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, and Brett Veach, the general manager, shared their confidence in Kelce’s return for the 2025 season. “We are excited to have him back and start it for the next season,” Veach said. Kelce’s decision to return has been welcomed by his teammates, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who reacted to the news on social media. Mahomes announced that this would be his and Kelce’s “Last Dance,” implying that they’re gearing up for one final push together.
Travis Kelce’s Career and Personal Life
Kelce has been in a relationship with pop star Taylor Swift, and his personal life often makes headlines. On the field, however, he’s known for his impressive skills. Despite having his least productive campaign in 2024, with 823 yards per reception and only three touchdowns, Kelce remains one of the top tight ends in the league. Throughout his career, which began in 2013, he has accumulated 12,151 yards per pass and 77 touchdowns.
What’s Next for Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs
With Kelce’s return confirmed, the Chiefs are looking forward to the 2025 season with renewed optimism. “Everything will go well. Travis is very positive, but you have to let him think clearly. Obviously, we hope he comes back,” said Coach Reid. Kelce’s determination to return to the top will undoubtedly be a significant factor in the team’s performance next season. As he prepares for what Mahomes has dubbed their “Last Dance,” fans are eagerly awaiting the upcoming season to see what Kelce and the Chiefs have in store.