NFL News: Andy Reid admits hard truth about Travis Kelce after first day of Chiefs training camp

After months of wait, the 2025 NFL season finally feels closer. Andy Reid and Travis Kelce couldn’t be happier about this, as the Kansas City Chiefs can’t wait to bounce back from a tough Super Bowl LIX loss.

Their battle for redemption is already underway, with the Chiefs among a number of NFL teams reporting for the opening day of training camp on Tuesday. After the practice, Reid was the first member of the team to address the media.

Speaking to reporters at Missouri Western State University in Saint Joseph, Reid was asked about Kelce and his future in Kansas City beyond the 2025 NFL season. Even though he had nothing but praise for the tight end, the Chiefs coach revealed a hard truth by warning that every career eventually comes to an end.

“He’s phenomenal. He’s been great for this organization. I’ve watched him grow as a player and as a man. We haven’t talked about last years. You hope he plays forever, but that doesn’t happen for any of us,” Reid admitted, via Charles Goldman of A to Z Sports.

Travis Kelce #87 and Head coach Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs look on in the second quarter against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl LVIII at Allegiant Stadium on February 11, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Retirement rumors surround Kelce in contract year with Chiefs

Kelce flirted with retirement during the offseason before ultimately deciding to come back for a 13th year in the NFL. With one year left on his contract, the veteran pass catcher felt it wasn’t time to call it a career yet.

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In April 2024, Kelce agreed to a two-year extension with the Chiefs reportedly worth $34.25 million with $17 million fully guaranteed. Though he thought about retiring prematurely, he ended up choosing to play out his deal.

It’s still a bit soon to tell whether he’ll retire for good next year, and no one in Kansas City seems interested in having that conversation. Reid, however, is being realistic. Kelce won’t play forever. Only time will tell us how much longer he’ll stay on the gridiron.