Free agent tight finish Travis Kelce is predicted to return to the NFL for a 14th season, based on NFL Media. Somewhat than coming into retirement or testing his market in free company, Kelce reportedly made it identified to groups all through the league that he intends to re-sign with the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs.
That is the primary time in Kelce’s legendary profession that he’s an unrestricted free agent. He inked a pair of long-term extensions throughout his stint in Kansas Metropolis however simply reached the top of a four-year deal and will signal with any staff that wishes him. There will probably be no sweepstakes for the famed tight finish, although, as he nears a deal to staff up as soon as once more along with his longtime quarterback, Patrick Mahomes.
Even at 36, Kelce is a premier tight finish and checks in because the No. 79 free agent in Pete Prisco’s rankings. Groups in win-now mode projected to be concerned with pursuing his abilities on as quick as a one-year deal, however the Chiefs at all times figured to be in play given what they and Kelce imply to one another and that he may assist them return to the postseason after a disappointing 2025 marketing campaign.
Kelce has been in talks over the past month with the Chiefs a few potential return. Coach Andy Reid confirmed in February that the staff and Kelce had communication however didn’t go as far as to say whether or not he anticipated the perimeters to return to phrases on a deal for 2026. Proprietor Clark Hunt in January expressed curiosity in bringing the longer term Corridor of Famer again, although.
“As a company, we definitely hope that he’ll come again,” Hunt stated on “Good Morning Soccer.” “He had one other nice yr, perhaps not on par with the place he was 4 or 5 years in the past, however nonetheless had over 800 yards, and was actually one of many leaders on the offensive aspect of the ball for us. So there isn’t any doubt in my thoughts that he can nonetheless play.”
The objective for Kelce has been to keep away from dragging his determination out for too lengthy. He stated in November that he wished to do proper by the Chiefs and finish the method on a hasty timeline, whether or not or not he performs with them transferring ahead. That mission is now achieved.
“I wish to give the Chiefs a very good alternative, whether or not I come again or not — or whether or not they need me again or not,” Kelce stated, through ESPN. “I might wish to make that call earlier than they have to get draft picks and free company opens to fill the roster appropriately.”
Kelce — a three-time Tremendous Bowl champion, seven-time All-Professional honoree and 11-time Professional Bowler — is on a transparent downturn from a manufacturing standpoint however remained a key aspect of the Chiefs’ high-powered offense in 2025. His 76 catches had been his fewest since 2015 and his 851 receiving yards had been his second-fewest since 2013.
