The NFL has featured one of the most compelling storylines in recent weeks within Chiefs Kingdom. Travis Kelce had been flirting with a potential retirement, something that ultimately did not happen, and Brett Veach already knew he would continue playing for the Kansas City Chiefs once the previous season concluded.
“We knew basically a day after our last game,” the General Manager revealed on The Pat McAfee Show. When many perhaps thought the answer was taking time to arrive, the No. 87 had evidently already made up his mind beforehand.
The roster has become a true powerhouse heading into what’s next. In fact, Kelce has already endorsed the Chiefs’ second-round pick R Mason Thomas, describing him as a “freak of nature.”
Improving on last season is imperative for Andy Reid and company. Missing the playoffs, combined with the serious injury to Patrick Mahomes, is something this team is eager to bounce back from as quickly as possible.
Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Can Kelce improve his 2025 stats?
During the 2025 NFL season, Travis Kelce managed to remain a focal point of the Kansas City offense, recording 76 receptions for 851 yards and 5 touchdowns. While these numbers secured him a spot as the 4th leading tight end in receiving yards, they also signaled a shift in his role toward a high-efficiency possession receiver rather than the deep threat of his prime.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Kelce faces the uphill battle of age, as he will be competing at 36 years old. Improving upon these stats will be difficult given the natural physical decline and the Chiefs’ need to rebuild following a disappointing 6-11 finish in 2025; however, his elite football IQ and his status as Patrick Mahomes‘ most trusted target mean he remains capable of elite production if he can stay healthy and the offensive line provides the necessary protection.
The anticipated return of Mahomes
Andy Reid is fully committed to Patrick Mahomes’ recovery, with the organization remaining confident that their star quarterback will be under center for Week 1. However, the Chiefs have bolstered their depth to ensure they are prepared for any scenario.
If Mahomes isn’t ready to go, the team might turn to veteran Justin Fields, who was acquired in a trade this past March. Additionally, the quarterback room now features rookie Garrett Nussmeier, selected in the seventh round of the 2026 Draft, alongside Chris Oladokun and Jake Haener, providing Reid with a versatile insurance policy while they await the MVP’s return.
