The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for their NFL Divisional Round playoff game against the Houston Texans, but could this be the last time star tight end Travis Kelce takes the field if the Chiefs lose?
While it’s highly unlikely, retirement has been on Kelce’s mind. In 2023, he admitted that he thinks about it “more than anyone could ever imagine” due to the “physical anguish” the game has put on his body.
“That’s the only thing I’ve never really been open about,” he said in a Wall Street Journal Interview. “The discomfort. The pain. The lingering injuries – the 10 surgeries I’ve had that I still feel every single surgery to this day.”
This year, Kelce has had his worst season statistically of his career in terms of receiving yards (823) and touchdowns (3). At 35, it’s understandable if he’s starting to feel the decline after so many successful years. Continuing to rack up 1,000-yard seasons is no easy feat, especially at this age.
On Wednesday, Kelce appeared on “The Stephen A. Smith Show” and discussed retirement. He shared what his brother, Jason Kelce, who retired after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles last offseason, had told him about his own experience with the decision.
“I think my brother’s biggest thing is, when you come into the building, do you still feel the energy?” Kelce told ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith. “Do you still feel the excitement? And do you still feel like you can do it at a high level week in, week out, knowing the seasons are only getting longer? With them added a 17th game.”
Kelce also feels that continuing to listen to his brother’s advice can send him “in the right direction.”
“Hearing him talk about how the end of his career came about and how tough of a decision it was for him,” Kelce added. “I can get sent in the right direction by just being here.
Travis on his brother Jason pic.twitter.com/HE1LjqJJ8M
— | fan acct. (@TayvisHaze) January 15, 2025
Kelce is arguably considered the greatest tight end to ever play the game. With 10 Pro Bowl selections, seven All-Pro honors, and three Super Bowl titles, his legacy speaks for itself.
The 6-foot-5, 250-pound star is now aiming for a fourth Super Bowl title. He’ll be back on the field this Saturday against the Texans, with kickoff set for 4:30 p.m. ET.
