Earlier this year, there was a misunderstanding about Travis Kelce‘s contract adjustment after it was misreported to be an extension for two additional years. However, after a clarification from the source, it was made clear that his contract stays valid only through 2025, with an additional pay raise. Could this mean that Travis Kelce’s retirement from the NFL is not too far away? Let’s find out whether the Kansas City Chiefs tight end is about to retire from American football.
When will Travis Kelce retire from the NFL?
Travis Kelce could possibly retire after the 2025-26 NFL season.
In April, there was confusion about Travis Kelce’s updated contract which was actually a contract adjustment and not an extension. Initially reported on X (formerly Twitter) as an extension until 2027, the clarification stated that the contract was valid through 2025 with an additional pay raise and a change in his guarantees next year. This contract adjustment guarantees Kelce $17 million for the upcoming 24-25 season, and $17.25 million later for the 25-26 season.
The average age for players to retire from the NFL is around 27 years old. Travis Kelce will soon turn 35 this October, and turn 37 a few months after the 2025-26 NFL season ends. However, a few players also go on to play until their 40s. Additionally, his brother Jason Kelce retired this year at the age of 36. Therefore, while it is possible that Travis Kelce will retire after the end of his current contract, nothing can be said with absolute certainty.
What did Travis Kelce say about retiring from football?
“I love playing this game at the highest level possible,” Travis said when addressing his retirement.
On the New Heights podcast with his brother Jason, Travis opened up about his thoughts on retirement. “It’s a thought that’s like, I love playing this game at the highest level possible. And I love playing at it at a level where I know I can have a bunch of success. I know I can still go out there and mow down dudes in the end zone. I know I can go out there and catch a flat route and turn it into a 15-, 20-yard game and make a few guys miss,” he said.
Further he added, “The moment that I can’t do that, I think that’s when I’m just gonna be like, ‘Alright. What am I doing this for?’
