Speculation surrounding Travis Kelce‘s future has intensified as the offseason approaches, with rumors suggesting the veteran tight end could leave the Kansas City Chiefs and potentially suit up for the New York Giants in 2026.
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While nothing has been officially decided, the chatter has added another layer of intrigue to what could be a pivotal moment in the decorated career of one of the NFL’s most accomplished players.
Now 36, Kelce just completed his 13th season in the league – all of which have been with the Chiefs. The 11-time Pro Bowler remained productive, finishing the 2025 campaign with 76 receptions for 851 yards and five touchdowns.
Though those numbers fall short of his peak All-Pro seasons, he continues to be a central figure in the offense for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Still, retirement rumors have surfaced, and an official announcement regarding his 2026 plans is expected in the coming weeks.
Addressing his timeline, Kelce emphasized that he wants clarity before key offseason milestones. “Seeing my brother go through it and how the league works, the season restarts in April,” Kelce said.
“I want to give the Chiefs a good opportunity, whether I come back or not or if they want me back. It’s one of those things where I’d like to make that decision before they need to make draft picks and free agency opens.
“All that will be at the end of the season. I won’t be thinking about it until then.”
Speculation arises about Giants switch
Despite that measured approach, longtime radio host Craig Carton has fueled speculation that Kelce may not only return for another season but do so outside of Kansas City.
Carton claims there is growing buzz that the future Hall of Famer has interest in joining the Giants.
“The rumor is that Travis Kelce is not going to retire. He wants to come back for another year, but he does not want to go back to Kansas City,” Carton said.
“I saw a story today that Travis Kelce wants to play for the New York Giants! That way he and his wife can live in New York City, she can go to every game, and Travis Kelce can be in the biggest media market in America.
“I know it’s just a rumor, but do not sleep on the Giants signing Kelce this offseason.”
Notably, no prominent NFL insiders have corroborated Carton’s report.
Historically, Kelce has suggested that his career would likely conclude either with the Chiefs or through retirement.
Leaving the franchise he has represented for 13 seasons would mark a dramatic shift, even considering the possibility that it would be easier for his fiancée Taylor Swift if Kelce lived in New York.
Why Kelce is likely to stay put
Adding further context, Clark Hunt, chairman of the Kansas City Chiefs, has publicly stated he hopes Kelce returns in 2026.
Meanwhile, Eric Bieniemy, offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, confirmed he has spoken with the star tight end during the offseason.
“I’ve had a small minimal conversation with both and they all have been great, but more than anything, it’s just the excitement of reuniting,” Bieniemy said.
“It feels good just to sit down and have conversations with guys. To be honest, I haven’t talked any football or anything, it’s just the excitement of seeing each other.”
Until Kelce makes his intentions official, uncertainty will persist. Whether he retires, remains with the Chiefs, or stuns the league by joining the Giants, his decision will undoubtedly shape one of the biggest storylines of the NFL offseason.
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