"Kelce, one of the most popular players in the NFL and a certain Hall of Famer, contemplated retirement after the 2025-26 season. The Chiefs cratered to a 6-11 record, losing their last six games and finishing a distant third in the AFC West behind the Denver Broncos and Chargers. They missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014."
"Kelce admits to having lost a step, but he still finished with 76 receptions on 108 targets and 851 receiving yards. He was voted to the Pro Bowl for the 11th year in a row and moved up to eighth on the all-time receiving list. He has more career receptions (1,080) than any tight end besides Tony Gonzalez (1,325) and Jason Witten (1,228)."
"His decision to return for one more season followed weeks of discussion with Chiefs Coach Andy Reid, teammates, family and close confidantes - including his fiancée and music megastar Taylor Swift. Kelce is expected to take a pay cut and play the 2026-27 season for about $10 million."
Travis Kelce, 36, is returning to the Kansas City Chiefs for a 14th season after contemplating retirement. Despite the Chiefs having only $23-25 million in available salary cap space and finishing 6-11 with a missed playoff appearance, Kelce chose to stay rather than pursue more lucrative offers elsewhere. He will take a significant pay cut, earning approximately $10 million for the 2026-27 season. Though Kelce acknowledges losing a step, he remains productive with 76 receptions, 851 receiving yards, and an 11th consecutive Pro Bowl selection. His decision followed extensive discussions with Coach Andy Reid, teammates, family, and fiancée Taylor Swift.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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