Travis Kelce Speaks about NFL Retirement After Chiefs’ Season-Ending Loss

Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce has admitted he remains undecided about his future in the NFL following the team’s season-ending defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Speaking to reporters after the weekend loss, the 36-year-old tight end addressed growing speculation about a possible retirement, making it clear that no decision has yet been made.

“First things first, I just love this team,” Kelce said in a video shared by Kansas City Star reporter Sam McDowell. “I’m proud of the way we finished this — even though it ended the way it did. Guys still showed up and gave it their all, and that’s all you can ask for.”

Kelce, a three-time Super Bowl champion, emphasized his deep connection to the Chiefs organization and said he plans to take time before deciding on his next move.

“I’ve got so much love for this team, this organization and the people here,” he said. “I’ll spend some time with them, go through exit meetings and get close to the family and figure things out.”

When asked whether he would step away from the game before making a final decision, Kelce remained noncommittal.

“Who knows,” he replied. “Either it hits me quick or I’ve got to take some time.”

Reflecting on his choice to return for the 2024–2025 season, Kelce said the decision had been relatively straightforward at the time.

“I knew right away I wanted to give this one a shot,” he said. “I don’t know — we’ll see.”

Asked whether he felt he had improved as a player this season, Kelce acknowledged the team’s struggles while remaining confident in his own preparation.

“Obviously, we didn’t do as well as a team,” he said, “but I felt like I came into the season prepared and ready to go with the right intentions. The ball just didn’t go our way in a lot of those close games.”

Kelce added that if he chooses to return for another season, staying physically ready for critical moments will be a key focus.

“If I do choose to come back, that’s something I’ve really got to focus on — making sure that I’m available and ready for those moments,” he said.

Kelce’s fiancée, pop superstar Taylor Swift, was notably absent from the Chiefs’ final game at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Swift, who began dating the NFL star in 2023, typically avoids attending away games due to security concerns.

Last month, DreamBiz Entertain reported that Swift and Kelce have already begun planning their post-NFL future, which includes several joint and individual projects — as well as preparations for their highly anticipated wedding.