As the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for the 2025 NFL season, one of the biggest questions surrounding the reigning AFC champions is whether this could be Travis Kelce‘s final year in the league.
The veteran tight end, who turns 36 in October, is entering his 13th NFL season-an impressive tenure marked by consistency, dominance, and postseason heroics.
Despite signs that Kelce may be nearing the end of his career, Patrick Mahomes isn’t seeing any of the usual indicators of retirement fatigue during the team’s offseason training activities.
“If it’s the last ride, you would never know,” Mahomes said Thursday, via Fox Sports’ Henry McKenna. “It doesn’t seem like a guy that it’s his last ride, or he’s tired of the job.”
Kelce has been one of Mahomes‘ most reliable weapons over the years, helping the Chiefs capture multiple Super Bowl titles. But after a noticeable statistical dip in 2024, speculation about his longevity has only grown louder.
Kelce’s motivation is clear
In 2024, Kelce‘s numbers fell below his usual high standards. He recorded 97 receptions for 823 yards and just three touchdowns over the regular season-his lowest touchdown total since his rookie year in 2013.
Typically known for ramping up his production during the playoffs, Kelce‘s postseason performance was also muted. He averaged only 58.3 receiving yards per game, and during Super Bowl LIX-a 40-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles-he managed just four catches for 39 yards.
After that defeat, Kelce texted ESPN host Pat McAfee, saying, “I’m gonna get in the best shape of my life this offseason.” It’s clear he has no intention of coasting through what could be his last campaign.
Still, history isn’t on his side. Few tight ends have maintained elite production into their mid-30s. Even Tony Gonzalez, the Hall of Fame tight end who also played for the Chiefs, never surpassed 1,000 receiving yards again after age 33.
Nonetheless, Mahomes might need Kelce to defy the odds once more. Kansas City’s wide receiver corps remains a work in progress. Rashee Rice is still recovering from a knee injury that derailed part of his 2024 season.
Xavier Worthy, a rookie who showed glimpses of potential, posted 638 receiving yards across 17 games but is yet to establish himself as a consistent threat.
In this context, Kelce‘s leadership, experience, and chemistry with Mahomes are more valuable than ever. Even if 2025 ends up being his last dance, the three-time Super Bowl champion looks poised to give everything he has.
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