Travis Kelce‘s retirement news is making waves as a recent report reveals the Kansas City Chiefs have set a deadline for the star tight end to decide his NFL future. Following the Chiefs’ heartbreaking Super Bowl LIX loss, speculation about Kelce’s next move has intensified, with the team eager for clarity. As one of the league’s most celebrated players faces a pivotal crossroads, fans are left wondering whether Kelce will return for another season or hang up his cleats for good.
From Kelce’s reflections on his career to the Chiefs’ offseason plans, all eyes are on him as the deadline reportedly approaches. Here’s everything you need to know about Travis Kelce’s potential retirement and what it means for the Chiefs moving forward.
Travis Kelce gets deadline to decide his retirement from Chiefs
Travis Kelce has until March 14 to decide if he will retire from the NFL, The Athletic reported. The Kansas City Chiefs set this deadline to clarify their offseason plans, particularly because Kelce is reportedly due an $11.5 million roster bonus on March 15 if he remains on the team.
Following the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, speculation about Kelce’s future intensified. The tight end, now 35, had a challenging 2024 season with career-low stats in receptions and touchdowns since his rookie year. Kelce acknowledged in his New Heights podcast with brother Jason Kelce that he is taking time to reflect, emphasizing that any decision to return would be wholehearted.
Kelce’s contract remains valid through the 2025 season, but the Chiefs’ deadline aligns with key NFL dates, including the start of free agency on March 10 and the new league year on March 12. Despite a decline in performance, Kelce remains an integral part of the Chiefs’ offense and a future Hall of Famer.
As Kelce contemplates retirement, the Chiefs face a critical offseason. His decision will impact their roster strategy, particularly in finding key targets for Patrick Mahomes. With Kelce’s legacy cemented through three championships and multiple Pro Bowl selections, the next month will determine if his illustrious career will continue or if the Chiefs will have to prepare for a future without their star tight end.
