<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/andy-reid">Andy Reid</a> and the Kansas City Chiefs have long accustomed fans across the NFL to creative plays and out-of-the-box thinking. As Patrick Mahomes sits out the rest of the season, Travis Kelce may be next in line to command the huddle if anything happens to Gardner Minshew and the rest of the QB room.



Emergency quarterbacks rarely see the field in an NFL game. However, teams must have them designated in case things suddenly head south. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Chiefs</a> have nothing left to play for, nor any motivation after watching Mahomes go down with a torn ACL injury. However, Reid and company must still designate an emergency QB. On that note, Kelce may finally fulfill his dream of being a signal-caller in the big leagues.



“The likeliest candidate for the Chiefs’ emergency backup quarterback job this week and beyond is none other than future Hall of Fame tight end Travis Kelce,” according to A to Z Sports. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Kelce</a> played at quarterback during his days back at Cleveland Heights High School.



<h2>More trouble for Reid and Chiefs</h2>



As if being without <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Mahomes</a> and eliminated from the NFL Playoffs wasn’t disheartening enough, the Chiefs have now witnessed Minshew go down with a knee injury.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251221_BUS_549224_TE-Travis-Kelce-of-the-Kansas-City-Chiefs_0e09559b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="TE Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs" class="wp-image-546462"></figure><figcaption>TE Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption></figure>



Fortunately, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/chiefs-and-andy-reid-sign-new-quarterback-after-patrick-mahomes-injury">Reid and the Chiefs signed a new quarterback</a> in Chris Oladokun. Just one day after being signed, the 28-year-old has been tossed onto the field against the Tennessee Titans in Week 16 of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/what-happened-to-gardner-minshew-and-who-else-is-on-chiefs-qb-depth-chart-with-patrick-mahomes-injured"></div>


<h2>QB room is down to one man</h2>



Oladokun is the lone quarterback available to the Chiefs. With Mahomes on Injured Reserve and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/gardner-minshew">Minshew</a> still being evaluated, the former seventh-round pick from 2022 is the last bullet in Andy Reid and Kansas City’s chamber.



If all else fails, Kelce could finally be placed under center. With several rumors swirling about Kelce’s future, lining up at quarterback could be the cherry on top of his career. If the 36-year-old indeed retires after the 2025 NFL season, taking snaps at the QB1 position would mean he has truly done it all in the league.

Andy Reid, Chiefs might have surprising role for Travis Kelce with Gardner Minshew as QB1 after Patrick Mahomes’ injury

Andy Reid, Chiefs might have surprising role for Travis Kelce with Gardner Minshew as QB1 after Patrick Mahomes' injury - Bolavip US

Reid, Chiefs might have surprising role for Kelce with Minshew as QB1 after Mahomes' injury

miniaturas

Travis Kelce spoke about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</a> and the knee injury that will keep the quarterback out for at least nine months. The tight end admitted that the ending of the last game for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> against the Chargers was a nightmare.



“I mean, that’s my brother. I know everything he’s going through and all that. I talked to him afterwards, before the MRI and stuff. It’s just disappointing and then, on top of that, just an absolute dagger into the back knowing how the season ended for Patrick on our last hope going into the last drive of the game. It looked like we were going to have a chance to maybe come out with a win and keep our hopes alive. Then, it kind of just kept going downhill from there.”



Kelce was visibly frustrated, as he thought there was a real chance to win another <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> alongside Mahomes. However, especially in one-score games, the Chiefs were unable to deliver.



<h2>Are the Chiefs eliminated from 2026 playoffs?</h2>



Yes. The Chiefs are eliminated from the playoffs because of a 6-8 record. With only three games remaining, they can no longer catch the other teams involved in the race for wild card spots. 



Additionally, the Chargers (10-4), Bills (10-4), and Texans (9-5) defeated the Chiefs in the regular season, giving them control of the tiebreakers. It was a mission impossible for Andy Reid’s team.



Despite the unusual situation of no longer competing for the Super Bowl, Kelce pointed out that they will aim to win the three remaining games with Gardner Minshew as the starting quarterback.



“It sucks, but that’s the reality of it. Right now, we’ve got three games left to try and enjoy with the guys in this building and the team that we’ve built here. Then, on top of that, Chiefs Kingdom deserves us to go out there and play our hearts out for them.”

Travis Kelce sends clear message on Patrick Mahomes injury, Chiefs elimination from playoffs and Gardner Minshew as starting QB

Travis Kelce sends clear message on Patrick Mahomes injury, Kansas City Chiefs elimination from playoffs and Gardner Minshew as QB - Bolavip US

Travis Kelce's message on Patrick Mahomes injury, Chiefs elimination from playoffs

Travis Kelce sends clear message on Patrick Mahomes injury, Chiefs elimination from playoffs and Gardner Minshew as QB

Travis Kelce didn’t give any new hints about his possible retirement with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a>. The only thing he confirmed is that, even though they are already eliminated, the legendary tight end will not sit out the three remaining matchups on the schedule. However, the veteran doesn’t know if he has played his last game with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</a>.



“That’s crazy. I think I’d rather just keep the focus of the media and everything on this team right now. All the conversations that I have with the team and everything moving forward will be with them. It’s a unique time in my life. Unfortunately, I’ve got three games left and I know when the season ends this year. Typically, we go into it and we don’t know when it’s going to end and that’s the beauty of it. Just trying to make sure everybody here knows that I’m focused on trying to win games in these last three games.”



Kelce wanted to end his football career with a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> victory alongside his great friend. However, after a 6-8 record and with the quarterback’s knee injury, that is no longer possible.



<h2>Is Travis Kelce retiring?</h2>



Travis Kelce hasn’t confirmed if he will retire or not, and the only thing he guaranteed is that he hasn’t played his last game with the Chiefs yet. The tight end said he will participate in the matchups against the Titans, Broncos, and Raiders because it is his duty as a member of a historic franchise.


 

 


“It’s just integrity, man. I signed up to be a Kansas City Chief and I love doing what I do. I know I’ve been dreaming of being in these moments and playing for an NFL team since I was a kid. Getting back to that will give you more motivation than you could ever need to play this game. That’s just how you need to go about work, whether you’re in the race or not (for the playoffs).”



Rumors about Kelce’s future continue to grow, as he is already engaged to Taylor Swift and even has a wedding date set for next year. The player has appeared resigned on his podcast New Heights, which has led many experts to believe he will retire.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-gardner-minshew-receives-tough-update-as-chiefs-qb-after-patrick-mahomes-injury"></div>

Travis Kelce confirms if he has played his last game with Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City Chiefs as tight end sends retirement message

Andy Reid confirms to Gardner Minshew that Chiefs QB job for next season is not available after Patrick Mahomes injury

Travis Kelce inadvertently suggests retirement from Kansas City Chiefs is possible to start next chapter of his life with Taylor Swift

Travis Kelce confirms if he has played his last game with Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs in retirement message - Bolavip US

Travis Kelce confirms if he has played his last game with Patrick Mahomes

Travis Kelce confirms if he has played his last game with Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs as tight end sends retirement message

January football is where careers are measured differently. The postseason doesn’t reward promise or hype, only teams and players, that keep winning long enough to return year after year.



Some names become fixtures once the playoffs arrive, their seasons routinely stretching beyond Week 18. Whether driven by dynasties or elite quarterbacks, the extended runs reveal who truly lived in the most demanding months.



Playoff appearances offer a different way to understand greatness in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>. Beyond rings or single-game heroics, they reflect persistence, timing and the ability to remain relevant as teams, systems and eras change across decades.



<h2>Tom Brady | 48 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_tom-brady-2_63295433.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548221"></figure><figcaption>Tom Brady (Source: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a>’s postseason resume is a statistical outlier that may never be replicated. Over 23 seasons, he appeared in 48 playoff games, effectively playing three additional regular seasons purely in high-stakes, single-elimination football. His journey began as an injury replacement in 2001 and concluded with a career that saw him start in 10 Super Bowls. 



This volume of play allowed him to set nearly every significant passing record in the playoffs, including 13,400 passing yards and 88 touchdowns. For over two decades, the road to the Super Bowl almost exclusively went through a team led by Brady.



<h2>Adam Vinatieri | 32 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Adam-Vinatieri_abd26f18.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548232"></figure><figcaption>Adam Vinatieri (Source: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Consistency is the hallmark of Adam Vinatieri’s career, a kicker whose 32 playoff appearances were split between two of the most successful AFC eras: the early New England Patriots dynasty and the Peyton Manning-led Indianapolis Colts. Vinatieri was not merely a passenger on these teams; he was often the deciding factor. 



He participated in five Super Bowls and won four, famously converting game-winning kicks in the final seconds of two of them. His ability to maintain a high conversion rate in freezing conditions and high-pressure moments made him the most trusted specialist in postseason history.



<h2>Stephen Gostkowski | 29 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Stephen-Gostkowski_e051adf3.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548233"></figure><figcaption>Stephen Gostkowski (Source: Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Stephen Gostkowski spent 14 seasons as the primary kicker for the New England Patriots, a tenure that aligned with the most dominant stretch in NFL history. His 29 playoff games are a byproduct of a team that reached the AFC Championship game almost annually. 



Beyond just being present, he was a prolific scorer, tallying 205 points in the postseason. His role was vital in the Patriots’ ability to secure three championships during his stay, providing a reliable floor for an offense that relied on tactical precision and field position.



<h2>Jerry Rice | 29 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Jerry-Rice-4_7908258f.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548234"></figure><figcaption>Jerry Rice (Source: Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jerry-rice">Jerry Rice</a>’s inclusion on this list is perhaps the most impressive, as he is the only non-quarterback or kicker to reach this level of postseason longevity. Playing 29 games at the most physically demanding position for a receiver requires a legendary commitment to conditioning. 



Primarily known for his years with the San Francisco 49ers, he also made a significant playoff run later in his career with the Oakland Raiders. He utilized these 29 appearances to set records that remain untouched, including over 2,200 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns in playoff competition.



<h2>Peyton Manning | 27 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_peyton-manning_ad9743fd.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548235"></figure><figcaption>Peyton Manning (Source: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/peyton-manning">Peyton Manning</a>’s 27 playoff appearances represent two distinct chapters of excellence. Known for his meticulous preparation and control at the line of scrimmage, he led his teams to the playoffs in 15 of his 17 active seasons. 



He is one of the few quarterbacks to reach the Super Bowl with four different head coaches and remains the first to win a title as the starting quarterback for two different franchises. His postseason career was defined by his ability to elevate different rosters, finishing his tenure with over 7,300 passing yards on the playoff stage.



<h2>D.D. Lewis | 27 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_D.D.-Lewis_f2bb3cc5.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548237"></figure><figcaption>D.D. Lewis (Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



A cornerstone of the legendary “Doomsday Defense,” D.D. Lewis was a fixture in the Dallas Cowboys’ lineup throughout the 1970s. His 27 playoff appearances remained an NFL record for many years and still stand as the highest total in Cowboys history. He was instrumental in Dallas reaching five Super Bowls, winning two of them. 



His versatility as a linebacker allowed him to excel in Tom Landry’s complex defensive schemes, notably recording two interceptions in the 1975 NFC Championship game. He retired as one of the few players to compete across three different decades, spanning from the late 60s to the early 80s.



<h2>Bill Romanowski | 26 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Bill-Romanowski_fa483e6b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548238"></figure><figcaption>Bill Romanowski (Source: Andy Lyons)</figcaption></figure>



Bill Romanowski’s 26-game postseason career is a testament to both his durability and his presence on winning rosters. Over 16 seasons, he never missed a single regular-season game, a streak that extended into deep playoff runs with the San Francisco 49ers and the Denver Broncos. 



He won back-to-back Super Bowls with both franchises, making him one of the few players in history to secure four rings with two different teams. Known for his intense and often controversial playing style, he provided a veteran physical presence in the middle of the defense for every postseason contender he joined.



<h2>Larry Cole | 26 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Larry-Cole_cc5f8200.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548251"></figure><figcaption>Larry Cole (Source: NFL Past Players)</figcaption></figure>



Larry Cole spent his entire 13-year career with the Dallas Cowboys, serving as a vital component of the defensive line during the franchise’s most successful era. Like his teammate D.D. Lewis, he appeared in 26 playoff games and five Super Bowls. 



He was a highly adaptable defender, capable of playing both end and tackle, which allowed him to remain productive as the Cowboys’ roster evolved around him. He is famously remembered for his habit of scoring against rivals; all four of his career touchdowns (three on interceptions and one on a fumble recovery) came against the Washington Redskins.



<h2>Travis Kelce | 25 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Travis-Kelce-1-3_96ca2b4d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548220"></figure><figcaption>Travis Kelce (Source: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Travis Kelce</a> has utilized his 25 playoff appearances to rewrite the record books for pass-catchers. As the primary target in the Kansas City Chiefs’ modern dynasty, he has surpassed Jerry Rice for the most postseason receptions in NFL history. His connection with Patrick Mahomes has resulted in 19 playoff touchdowns, placing him second all-time behind Rice. 



His ability to find openings in postseason defenses has led to seven consecutive seasons with deep playoff runs, including four Super Bowl appearances and three titles, cementing his status as the most productive tight end in the history of the tournament.



<h2>James Winchester | 25 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_James-Winchester_1961e0a5.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548239"></figure><figcaption>James Winchester (Source: Christian Petersen/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



While long snappers rarely command headlines, James Winchester’s 25 playoff games highlight his essential role in the Kansas City Chiefs’ sustained success. Since joining the team in 2015, he has been the starting long snapper for every game of the Mahomes era, ensuring the stability of the special teams unit during three Super Bowl championship runs. 



His career is a rare example of specialist longevity; by never missing a snap in high-pressure situations, he has quietly climbed the all-time list of playoff appearances, tying teammates for the most postseason games played in franchise history.



<h2>Matthew Slater | 25 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Matthew-Slater_d7735ef8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548240"></figure><figcaption>Matthew Slater (Source: Billie Weiss/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Matthew Slater represents a unique chapter in NFL history: a pure special teams player who achieved legendary status without ever being a regular on offense. Serving as the special teams captain for the New England Patriots for 16 seasons, he appeared in 25 postseason games, acting as the emotional and tactical heartbeat of the unit during three championship runs (XLIX, LI, LIII). 



His elite speed as a “gunner” and his ability to pin opponents deep were critical to Bill Belichick’s field-position strategy. A 10-time Pro Bowler as a specialist, his playoff longevity is a testament to the value of excelling in the game’s “third phase.”



<h2>Charlie Waters | 25 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Charlie-Waters_3717cf4e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548253"></figure><figcaption>Charlie Waters (Source: NFL Past Players)</figcaption></figure>



Charlie Waters was a defining figure of the Dallas Cowboys’ “Doomsday Defense” throughout the 1970s. His 25 playoff appearances are highlighted by a remarkable knack for turnovers; he still holds the NFL record for the most career postseason interceptions with 9, including a historic three-interception performance in a single game. 



He competed in five Super Bowls, securing victories in VI and XII. His instinctive play in the secondary and his ability to diagnose complex offenses made him a permanent fixture in the postseason for over a decade, during which the Cowboys rarely missed a deep January run.



<h2>Devin McCourty | 24 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Devin-McCourty_32589b08.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548241"></figure><figcaption>Devin McCourty (Source: Mike Stobe/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Devin McCourty’s 24 postseason games, all of them as a starter, underscore his role as the cerebral anchor of the Patriots’ second dynasty. He is one of the few players in league history to earn Pro Bowl honors at both cornerback and safety, a versatility that allowed New England’s defense to reinvent itself year after year. 



A three-time Super Bowl champion, he served as a team captain for 12 consecutive seasons. By the time he retired, he had logged more defensive snaps in the playoffs than almost any other player in the modern era, providing a consistent veteran presence in a secondary that faced the league’s most prolific passers.



<h2>Vince Wilfork | 24 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Vince-Wilfork_d06cdbb3.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548242"></figure><figcaption>Vince Wilfork (Source: Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Vince Wilfork was the immovable force at the center of the defensive line for 24 postseason contests, primarily with the Patriots before finishing his career with the Houston Texans. Weighing over 325 pounds, his impact went beyond traditional statistics; he was a master at absorbing double-teams and collapsing the pocket from the inside. 



A two-time Super Bowl winner, his agility was often surprising for his size, evidenced by his crucial interception in the 2011 AFC Championship game. His presence ensured that his teams could control the line of scrimmage, a prerequisite for any defensive success in cold-weather playoff football.



<h2>David Akers | 24 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_David-Akers_3bb4feb7.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548243"></figure><figcaption>David Akers (Source: Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



David Akers concludes this veteran group with 24 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most reliable scoring threats in postseason history. The bulk of his legacy was built with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he once set an NFL record by converting 19 consecutive field goals in the playoffs. 



He finished his career with 39 successful postseason field goals, including a productive late-career stint with the San Francisco 49ers that led to an appearance in Super Bowl XLVII. His ability to maintain accuracy in the swirling winds of Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field made him an indispensable asset during an era of sustained NFC dominance.



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"><table><tbody><tr><td>Player</td><td>Games played</td></tr><tr><td>Tom Brady</td><td>48</td></tr><tr><td>Adam Vinatieri</td><td>32</td></tr><tr><td>Stephen Gostkowski</td><td>29</td></tr><tr><td>Jerry Rice</td><td>29</td></tr><tr><td>Peyton Manning</td><td>27</td></tr><tr><td>D.D. Lewis</td><td>27</td></tr><tr><td>Bill Romanowski</td><td>26</td></tr><tr><td>Larry Cole</td><td>26</td></tr><tr><td>Travis Kelce</td><td>25</td></tr><tr><td>James Winchester</td><td>25</td></tr><tr><td>Matthew Slater</td><td>25</td></tr><tr><td>Charlie Waters</td><td>25</td></tr><tr><td>Devin McCourty</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Vince Wilfork</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>David Akers</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Brett Favre</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Ed White</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Gene Upshaw</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Patrick Chung</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Mason Crosby</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Ben Roethlisberger</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Jesse Sapolu</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Joe Montana</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Dave Dalby</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Robert Newhouse</td><td>23</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption>(Source: Statmuse)</figcaption></figure>

NFL players with the most playoff appearances: Who leads the all-time list?

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NFL players with the most playoff appearances: Who leads the all-time list? - Bolavip US

Travis Kelce has sparked a new frenzy on social media after hinting at his retirement at the end of the season with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a>. During his New Heights podcast, while discussing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</a> and his injury, the legendary tight end made a very intriguing statement.



“The surgery went well. He’s a warrior. I’m telling you. This guy has played through everything. Battled through everything. He has been crowned champion because he’s battled though everything and he’s going to battle through this. It’s the only way this guy is wired. He’s a fearless warrior when it comes to this football thing and he’s going to make sure that he comes back stronger than ever. Hopefully, the Chiefs can get him back as soon as possible.”



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> champion said, “Hopefully, THE Chiefs can get him back,” and did not use the word “we” as he frequently does when talking about his team. Whether that was a conscious choice or not, only time will tell.



<h2>Is Travis Kelce retiring?</h2>



Travis Kelce has not officially announced his retirement, but his choice of words regarding Patrick Mahomes’ situation and the tone in which he said them have sparked a lot of speculation about his future.


 

 


In fact, later in the podcast episode, Kelce spoke again about Mahomes’ injury and the quarterback’s recovery timeline as if he were not going to be part of the Chiefs for the 2026 season. This has only fueled the rumors even more.



“I know right now is kind of right around that Week 1 or the beginning of the season next year. So, I know he’s going to be doing everything he can to get back out on that field for the Chiefs as soon as possible.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-andy-reid-and-chiefs-are-reluctant-to-give-contract-extension-to-patrick-mahomes-star-teammate"></div>

Travis Kelce inadvertently suggests retirement from Kansas City Chiefs is possible to start next chapter of his life married to Taylor Swift

NFL News: Andy Reid’s latest message for Gardner Minshew is great endorsement as Chiefs next QB after Patrick Mahomes’ left knee injury

NFL News: Travis Kelce confirms retirement decision timeline with Chiefs

Travis Kelce inadvertently suggests retirement from Chiefs is possible to start next chapter of his life with Taylor Swift - Bolavip US

Travis Kelce inadvertently suggests retirement from Chiefs

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travis Kelce</a>’s retirement decision remains up in the air. The veteran tight end has not hidden his frustration with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Chiefs</a>’ early elimination, and he has now addressed what the future may hold for both himself and the franchise.



After more than a decade of consistent playoff appearances, the Chiefs will not be part of the postseason in 2026. While the final three games of the season may not change their fate, Kelce believes they will play a crucial role in laying the foundation for a potential rebuild heading into next year.



“Things, when you need them the most, just weren’t falling for us, and you’ve got to go back to the drawing board, and we got three games left,” Travis Kelce said, via Pete Grathoff of the Kansas City Star. “I know we’re still talking about this game, but the integrity of who you are as a professional, as a player, you got to love this. And Chiefs Kingdom, we’re going to give you everything we got.



“There’s no question about that. There’s only one way I do things. There’s only one way coach [Andy] Reid does things. And if we’re going to go out there and play some football, we’re going to do it the right way, and keep trying to get these things fixed and end on the highest note that we can.”



<h2>Is tanking an option for the Chiefs?</h2>



One of the most important elements of a successful rebuild is a strong NFL Draft position. At the moment, the Chiefs hold the 12th overall pick in the upcoming draft, though that spot could improve depending on how the final weeks unfold.



Kansas City still has matchups against the Titans, Broncos, and Raiders to close out the 2025 season. The Chiefs are favored against Tennessee and Las Vegas, while the game against Denver could result in another loss for Andy Reid’s squad.


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This has sparked a legitimate debate: is it worth winning those remaining games? The idea of tanking has entered the conversation, as a few additional losses—combined with results around the league—could allow the Chiefs to move up several spots in the draft order.



Kansas City’s most pressing needs lie on the offensive side of the ball. The team could be in the market for a tight end (depending on Kelce’s decision), a running back, and a reliable wide receiver to support Patrick Mahomes and position the Chiefs for a strong bounce-back season in 2026.

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Travis Kelce receives strong advice from brother Jason about retirement decision

Travis Kelce breaks silence on next step after Chiefs’ elimination from 2025 NFL season - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travis Kelce</a> endured a disappointing 2025 NFL season with the Kansas City Chiefs. Now that the team has been eliminated, rumors surrounding the star tight end’s potential retirement have intensified, and his brother <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jason-kelce" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jason</a> has weighed in with advice on the matter.



The idea of retirement has reportedly crossed Travis Kelce’s mind in recent months, but it has gained even more traction following the conclusion of the 2025 season. With uncertainty surrounding his future, his brother Jason—who retired last year—sent him a message for guidance on how to determine whether it is time to step away from football.



“In my opinion, to nail that decision you gotta step away from the game for a little bit,” Jason Kelce said on how to decide if retirement is the best option, via SportsCenter. “Play these last three games, enjoy them with your teammates, enjoy them with your coaches. The team’s going to be different whether you come back or not next year, so enjoy these last three games and then let it sink in.



“It will come to you with time. There’s so many emotions with this game right after a season. Especially with the way this one’s been, it’s been so up and down, they’re 1-7 in one score games. They’ve been close. Right now, it’s too fresh. You gotta step away for a minute, you gotta think about it.”



<h2>Is Travis Kelce retiring after the 2025 NFL season?</h2>



When the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chiefs</a> lost Super Bowl LIX to the Philadelphia Eagles, speculation immediately surfaced about Travis Kelce’s future. Although he did not have his best season, Kelce ultimately chose to return for one more year.



Unfortunately, the 2025 campaign did not go as planned. Kelce struggled to produce at his usual elite level, and the Chiefs as a whole failed to meet expectations. Their early elimination from playoff contention has only added fuel to the retirement rumors surrounding the veteran tight end.


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As of now, Kelce has not publicly announced whether he plans to retire once the 2025 season comes to an end. However, with advice from Jason—who has firsthand experience navigating the difficult decision to retire—Kelce may now have greater clarity about what is often the toughest choice an athlete faces.



<h2>A difficult road ahead for the Chiefs</h2>



Kansas City is officially out of playoff contention with three games remaining, and the outlook for 2026 is far from encouraging. A quick turnaround may prove difficult, and the Chiefs could be facing an even more challenging campaign next season.



Adding to the concern, Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn ACL in Week 15, casting serious doubt over the team’s ability to rebound in 2026. If Kelce ultimately decides to retire, it would represent a worst-case scenario for a franchise already dealing with major uncertainty.

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift have reportedly set the date and location for their wedding

Travis Kelce might have given up on Chiefs after message confirms retirement is looming

Travis Kelce receives strong advice from brother Jason about retirement decision - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Travis Kelce</a> and the Kansas City Chiefs experienced all kinds of disappointment in the 2025 NFL season. Following the playoff-elimination loss in Week 15, questions now loom around the star tight end’s future. Many are calling for him to retire, and Hall of Famer Cris Carter is among them.



“He’s done,” Carter said about Kelce during an appearance on the Up and Adams Show with Kay Adams. “I see him performing on stages more so than I do on NFL fields.“



Carter’s comments come just days after Kelce and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Chiefs</a> missed the NFL playoffs for the first time since 2014. Although Kelce recorded seven catches for 70 yards against the LA Chargers in Week 15, his performance throughout the year was mostly flat and underwhelming. He managed to make a couple of flashy plays here and there, but the woes essentially overshadowed the highlights.



<h2>Kelce’s lost his flair</h2>



“He has no ability to be able to separate all his savviness and everything,” Carter added. “When you don’t have an elite receiver outside and you don’t have an elite running game, you can’t hide that. When he catches the football, his objective is not to fumble and he can’t make anybody miss anymore.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251216_BUS_546449_travis-kelce-1-2_9639a2f0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Travis Kelce crestfallen" class="wp-image-546458"></figure><figcaption>Travis Kelce at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri.</figcaption></figure>



Though the former Vikings wideout didn’t mince words or sugarcoat his thoughts on Kelce’s performance this season, to an extent his statement can be supported by the evidence. 


 

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Known for his after-the-catch ability, Kelce has regressed tremendously in that area of his game. He appears to be missing a gear, which is only reasonable for a 36-year-old player who has been performing at the highest level since entering the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>.



<h2>Kelce’s story could come full circle</h2>



If Kelce indeed announces his retirement after the 2025 NFL campaign, he would end things where they started. Kelce and the Chiefs missed the postseason during his rookie year in 2014 and could now miss the playoffs again in the tight end’s final season. 



Needless to say, this coincidence would only highlight the incredible run Kansas City has been on ever since rolling the dice on a rowdy player out of the University of Cincinnati in the 2013 NFL Draft.


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NFL Hall of Famer predicts Travis Kelce’s retirement decision: 'He’s done' - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Travis Kelce</a> appeared defeated in the latest episode of his podcast New Heights when talking about the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> and their recent loss to the Houston Texans, which has left Andy Reid’s team with a 6-7 record.



“It’s been a tough go around for the past days. You put in all this work and hope that it pays off and right now it just, for whatever reason, it’s little things. I don’t know. Discipline. I feel like I’ve always had the answers in years past and this year I just can’t find them.”



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</a> and the Chiefs can no longer win the AFC West, so their only path now is to secure a playoff berth as a wild card team. They will need a lot of help to achieve it since they no longer control their destiny.



<h2>Is Travis Kelce retiring?</h2>



Travis Kelce’s statements have hinted that he might not have much left in the tank and might retire, especially given the frustration he showed despite having given everything to produce results, which still haven’t come.


 

 


The legendary tight end cannot understand how in previous years his habits and discipline would deliver results in moments of crisis, but this season, everything is going wrong for the Chiefs. Something that didn’t happen in this dynasty.



“I keep thinking if I show up to work and I put in the work, and I fix the issues through my practice habits and through perfecting the game plan and my fundamentals and what I’m being taught, and go out there and play for my guys next to me, it’s all going to come together like it has in years past and this year is just not. Not to say that I won’t keep doing that. It’s all that I can do. Obviously, looking at the playoffs, this is a tough reality to be in, especially with how we’ve always found a way in past years.”


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Travis Kelce might have given up on Kansas City Chiefs after message confirms retirement is looming - Bolavip US

Travis Kelce might have given up on Chiefs

It’s clear that the Kansas City Chiefs’ <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season has been far from what they expected, and the Week 14 loss to the Houston Texans was a perfect reflection of that. The Patrick Mahomes–led offense fell apart, largely due to key drops from players such as Travis Kelce and Rashee Rice.



Despite this particular situation, which could undoubtedly have affected the final outcome of the game, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Mahomes</a> has full confidence in his key weapons — the very players who have helped him secure multiple titles since joining the league.



“He’s a champion for a reason,” the quarterback said about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Kelce</a>. “He knows what it takes, and he’s made that play 99 percent of the time. And I got to give him a better chance with a ball maybe more on his body. So, I’ll never question that.”



He also made a specific reference to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rashee-rice">Rice</a>: “I’m gonna go to those guys in big moments. Those guys have made plays in Super Bowls. They’ve made plays in AFC championship games. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251208_BUS_541870_travis-kelce-4_a425f5f7.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Travis Kelce TE Kansas City Chiefs" class="wp-image-541944"></figure><figcaption>Al-Shaair of the Houston Texans intercepts a pass intended for Travis Kelce.</figcaption></figure>



“So, obviously, it didn’t go our way today. I had a lot to do with that myself. And so, regardless of what happens the rest of this season, we’ll give everything we have every snap and give ourselves the best chance to go out there and make a run.”



<h2>Dim night for Kelce and Rice</h2>


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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Chiefs</a> suffered a critical loss where their normally reliable receiving corps struggled with ball security at the worst possible moments. Rashee Rice failed to secure a vital fourth-down pass in the final quarter while the team was down by seven points (17-10); this turnover on downs effectively gifted the Texans the necessary field position to extend their lead. 



Compounding the issue, veteran Travis Kelce saw his final drive attempt end prematurely after he dropped back-to-back passes, with the second errant target deflecting off his hands and resulting in a game-sealing interception.

Patrick Mahomes delivers comment for Travis Kelce, Rashee Rice to hear after drops vs Texans

Patrick Mahomes delivers comment for Travis Kelce, Rashee Rice to hear after drops vs Texans - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Travis Kelce</a> and Taylor Swift continue to dominate headlines, not only for their individual success but for the cultural frenzy surrounding their relationship. Since going public in 2023, the couple has become a fixture in both sports and entertainment, with every public appearance sparking global attention.



Over the past year, the spotlight has intensified as their engagement turned into one of the most discussed celebrity moments of the season. Fans and media alike have been waiting for the next step, especially as speculation about wedding plans grew louder with each passing month.



Now, the anticipation has finally turned into confirmation. They have reportedly locked in both the date and the location for what is expected to be one of the most high-profile weddings of the decade, setting the tone for an offseason filled with excitement far beyond the football field.



<h2>Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s wedding: Date and location revealed</h2>



The headline moment of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> star tight end’s upcoming offseason won’t come from the gridiron but from a wedding aisle. According to FOX Sports, “Travis Kelce is set to marry <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/taylor-swift">Taylor Swift</a> in the Watch Hill neighborhood of Westerly, Rhode Island, on Saturday, June 13, 2026“.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251208_BUS_541867_Taylor-Swift-and-Travis-Kelce-1_18058acd.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-541901"></figure><figcaption>Taylor Swift celebrates with Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs. (Source: Jamie Squire/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The ceremony will be held at Ocean House, a Victorian-style luxury hotel the couple has frequented and that perfectly aligns with the tone of an event expected to draw worldwide attention.



The choice of date carries an unmistakable personal touch from Swift. As Harper’s Bazaar noted, “The date, of course, is a nod to the superstar’s lucky number, 13“. The pair, who got engaged in August nearly two years after going public, are planning a celebration that reflects both their history and their high-profile lives.



<h2>What this means for Kelce’s off-field future</h2>



As Kelce prepares for a potentially defining <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> offseason, the balance between his personal milestones and professional uncertainty becomes even more striking. At 36, with three Super Bowl rings and a résumé that guarantees Hall of Fame induction, he will once again face the familiar process of determining whether to continue his career or begin a new chapter.



What is clear is that, away from the field, his life is already shifting into a new phase—one marked by his upcoming marriage and numerous opportunities waiting once he decides to hang up the cleats. For now, the wedding with the singer stands as the one certainty in an offseason filled with possibilities.

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Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift have reportedly set the date and location for their wedding - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Chiefs</a> are close to being eliminated from the playoffs after a home defeat against the Houston Texans. Still, that’s not the only issue the team might be worried about. After the game, quarterback Patrick Mahomes was brutally honest when talking about tight end Travis Kelce‘s future.



“Every season that I’ve had with him these last few years I try to cherish because you never know,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mahomes</a> said when asked about Kelce’s future. “He got himself in great shape this year and he’s played some great football. He’ll have the option to do whatever he wants to do after this season, but I know one thing is he’ll give everything he has the rest of the season to try to give us a chance to make a playoff run.”



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kelce</a> is in his 13th season in the NFL. During the last couple of years, he’s looked out of his prime, and even if this season’s numbers are somewhat better than 2024’s, Kelce has lost explosiveness and ability to always be open. Kelce has 727 yards and five touchdowns this year.



<h2>Something’s off with Kelce</h2>



Every player is bound to have some decline at some point. After all, father time is undefeated. Still, while Kelce’s numbers are bound to surpass last year’s numbers, there are some key moments where Kelce just doesn’t look as sharp as he has been throughout his career. See the clip below as an example.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Kelce cant secure a pass and we end up with ANOTHER Patrick Mahomes interception. <a href="https://t.co/wU2HdlpnnG">pic.twitter.com/wU2HdlpnnG</a>— Aggregate Sports (@AggregateSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/AggregateSports/status/1997884312989860179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



That was Kelce’s bread and butter back in the day, now it costs Mahomes interceptions. Kelce was the most reliable weapon in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>, and now it’s no longer that way. It stinks, but even Mahomes is trying to wrap his head around the fact that Kelce might not be there in the near future.


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<h2>The Chiefs need a top-tier weapon</h2>



Without Kelce being his prime self, there is a huge issue with the Chiefs roster. There is no clear-cut number one weapon on the team. Wide receivers Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy are not elite weapons. They are fine players, but they are not real difference-makers and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-texans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texans</a> made sure to made that very visible.



The same goes for the running game, Isiah Pacheco is not the same after his leg fractures, and Kareem Hunt is past his prime too. They are not bad running backs, but nowhere near an elite level. Hence, Mahomes is feeling alone on offense.

Patrick Mahomes makes big admission about Travis Kelce’s future after rough night for Chiefs vs Texans

Patrick Mahomes makes big admission about Travis Kelce's future after rough night for Chiefs vs Texans - Bolavip US

The 2025 NFL season has been anything but kind to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Travis Kelce</a> and the 6–6 Kansas City Chiefs. With the organization in Missouri now having its back against the wall, the star tight end sent quarterback Patrick Mahomes, head coach Andy Reid, and the rest of the team a powerful message—one that also served as a warning to the rest of the league.



Though far from being in a comfortable spot in the NFL, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Chiefs</a> have their job cut out for them. They either sink or swim. With fives games remaining in the regular season, Kelce and Kansas City can afford no stumbles. Coming into the season, not many expected a team commanded by Mahomes and Reid to be in this position, yet here they are.



However, the story could’ve been much different. If the Chiefs could turn back the hands of the clock in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> campaign, make no mistake—they’d definitely do so. Kelce indicated exactly that. Far from making excuses, though, the veteran tight end delivered a clear statement, warning the league not to sleep on Kansas City.



“I’m sure everyone is sick of us saying it, but we’re a few plays away from being a one seed in my mind,” Kelce confessed, via Sports Illustrated. “All of the losses are within one score, and there’s a handful of plays within those games that are determining the outcome. It’s hard. It’s crazy that you watch the film and you see what’s real, and what’s real is we’re this (expletive) close.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251204_BUS_539271_travis-kelce-1_66f668b8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Travis Kelce warms up " class="wp-image-539303"></figure><figcaption>Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Chiefs can’t buy their luck</h2>



When going through the Chiefs’ losses in the 2025 NFL season, Kelce’s comments make a lot of sense. Kansas City has fallen just short in several games where the coin could’ve easily landed on its side. It didn’t, and now the Chiefs are fighting for their lives with 5 games left in the schedule.


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In many ways, it seems the tide has turned for the team in the Paris of the Plains. Plays that once went their way are now bouncing in their opponents’ direction. In past seasons, the Chiefs walked away with nail-biting victories, often prevailing after chaotic endings. This time around, the Chiefs are 1–6 in one-possession games.



Kelce’s comments have plenty of evidence behind them. Still, they don’t tell the whole story. Everyone on the team knows many things could’ve been done differently, and though it’s easy to point the finger at the bounce of the football, the Chiefs hold their own share of responsibility for the 6–6 record that has their Super Bowl hopes hanging by a thread.



<h2>What’s next for the Chiefs?</h2>



However, Kelce and the Chiefs know better than to cry over spilled milk. What’s done is done. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Mahomes</a> may be capable of making any throw in football, but he can’t go back and change the past. 



Kansas City must simply move on and focus on what lies ahead. For starters: a Week 14 matchup with the Houston Texans on Sunday night. Back home at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/andy-reid">Reid</a> and the Chiefs must deliver a statement victory as they go up against the No. 1 defense in the NFL.


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Travis Kelce warns rest of the NFL about 6-6 Chiefs with bold message for Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid - Bolavip US

Kelce warns rest of the NFL about 6-6 Chiefs with bold message

Travis Kelce warns rest of the NFL about 6-6 Chiefs with bold message for Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/without-chiefs-cowboys-and-steelers-current-nfl-playoff-picture-before-week-14">Kansas City Chiefs find themselves out of the NFL playoff picture before Week 14</a>. Head coach Andy Reid, therefore, made sure to motivate Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and the rest of his players as the team enters a critical stretch of the season.



“Let’s go. You’re in the month of December and you’re still in it, so let’s go. That’s what important,” was <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/andy-reid">Reid</a>‘s message to the Chiefs during his Wednesday press conference, as quoted by Charles Goldman of A to Z Sports.



Coming off a painful loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Chiefs</a> sit 10th in the AFC standings—three places shy of the 7th seed (currently held by the 8-4 Buffalo Bills), which grants the final Wild Card spot.



<h2>Can the Chiefs still make the 2026 NFL playoffs?</h2>



While the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/are-the-chiefs-eliminated-from-nfl-playoffs-after-loss-to-cowboys">loss to the Cowboys hasn’t eliminated the Chiefs from the 2026 NFL playoffs</a>, it left Reid’s team in a precarious position. According to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/standings/playoff-picture">NFL Next Gen Stats</a>, Kansas City currently has a 34% chance of making the postseason.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251203_BUS_538570_Kelce-Mahomes_b6742d98.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes before a game" class="wp-image-103353" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes speak before a game against the Chargers.</figcaption></figure>



At 6-6, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Mahomes</a> and company have no margin for error. They now enter a crucial run in their playoff push, starting with a Sunday Night Football showdown against the Houston Texans, currently 8th in the AFC (7-5). A win would increase the Chiefs’ playoff probability to 58%, while a loss would reduce their chances to 11%.


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The Chiefs’ schedule also includes must-win games against division rivals Los Angeles Chargers (8-4) and Denver Broncos (10-2) to try and climb from third place in the AFC West. While any setback could prove costly, their leader has shown nothing but optimism.



Before his encouraging message for Mahomes, Kelce and company on Wednesday, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/andy-reid-issues-strong-warning-to-texans-chargers-and-broncos-as-chiefs-face-crucial-stretch">Reid put the Texans, Chargers, and Broncos on notice, warning</a> everyone that the Chiefs are capable of winning all five remaining games.



<h2>Have the Chiefs ever missed the playoffs with Reid, Kelce, and Mahomes?</h2>



The Chiefs missed the playoffs just once with Reid and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Kelce</a>: that occurred in 2014, when both were in their second year in Kansas City. Mahomes, on the other hand, has always made the postseason so far.



In fact, since Mahomes took over as the starting quarterback in 2018, the Chiefs have constantly reached at least the AFC Championship Game, with five trips to the Super Bowls—winning three of them.



The 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season is therefore changing the outlook for a team that got used to succeeding in recent years. For instance, the Chiefs have dominated the AFC West with consecutive division titles since 2016. That supremacy appears to be at risk this year.

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NFL News: Andy Reid sends wake-up call to Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Chiefs ahead of critical run - Bolavip US

Andy Reid sends wake-up call to Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Chiefs

NFL News: Andy Reid sends wake-up call to Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Chiefs ahead of critical run

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Travis Kelce</a> is trying to keep the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> alive during the 2025 season, but to his surprise, after several weeks, he was faced with a question about his possible retirement and when that decision would come.



“I think, you know, seeing my brother go through it and just how the league works, the season kind of restarts in April. I want to give the Chiefs a good opportunity, whether I come back or not, or whether they want me back or not. It’s one of those things where I’d like to make that decision before they’ve got to get draft picks and free agency opens so that it gives them an opportunity to go out there and fill the roster appropriately. So, all that will be at the end of the season. I won’t be thinking about it until then.”



Many were hoping Kelce would have a dream send-off, going out on top by winning another <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> alongside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</a>, but, with a 5-5 record, the Chiefs are out of the playoff picture, and it’s almost impossible for them to catch the Denver Broncos in the fight for the AFC West.



<h2>Is Travis Kelce retiring?</h2>



No. Travis Kelce is not retiring from football yet. The legendary tight end is in the final year of his contract with the Kansas City Chiefs, so, out of respect for the team, he wants to make a decision before the free agency period begins.


 

 


In a very interesting detail, Kelce acknowledged that if he returns for the 2026 season, announcing it as his last, he would not want it to be some kind of farewell tour. “That’s not me. I’ll like to take it day by day, year by year, and just evaluate it like that.”



It’s important to remember that Travis Kelce got engaged to Taylor Swift a few months ago, and that could influence whether he retires from football to focus entirely on his personal life and other projects, such as the podcast New Heights with his brother Jason.


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Travis Kelce confirms retirement decision timeline with Chiefs - Bolavip US

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