The Kansas City Chiefs are expecting an answer from star tight end Travis Kelce regarding his NFL future, and time is running out.
Following the Chiefs’ Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, speculation has grown about whether Kelce will continue playing or step away from the game.
According to The Athletic, the Chiefs have set a rough deadline of March 14 for Kelce to inform them of his plans.
That date coincides with the start of the new league year and the opening of free agency. Additionally, Over The Cap reports that Kelce is set to receive a $12.5 million roster bonus on March 15, meaning the team needs clarity before making key roster decisions.
Kelce, who has spent his entire NFL career with Kansas City, has not publicly indicated whether he intends to return or retire.
Patrick Mahomes Weighs in on Kelce’s Uncertain Future
Teammate Patrick Mahomes addressed the topic after the Super Bowl, acknowledging the impact Kelce has had on the team and the league.
“He’s given so much to this team and to the NFL and been such a joy, not only for me to work with but for people to watch,” Mahomes said. “He knows he still has a lot of football left in him. You can see it. He always makes plays in the biggest moments, but it’s if he wants to put in that grind because it’s a grind to go out there and play 20 games and get to the Super Bowl.
“He’s done enough to be a gold jacket guy and a first-ballot Hall of Famer, but I know he still has a love for the game.”
Signs Point to Retirement?
NFL insider James Palmer reported this week that many within the Chiefs organization believe Kelce may have played his final season. While there has been no official announcement, those close to the situation suspect that 2023 could have been his last run.
Kelce himself hasn’t given much away. On this week’s episode of the New Heights podcast, he stated he was “just kicking everything down the road,” hinting that he isn’t in a rush to make a final decision.
With just a month left before the Chiefs‘ deadline, the countdown is on for Kelce to determine whether he will return for another season or walk away from the game.
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