The Kansas City Chiefs have a tough financial decision looming as they attempt to bounce back from their Super Bowl LIX loss—and it involves one of their most legendary players, Travis Kelce. With the tight end set to carry a $19.8 million cap hit in 2025, speculation is growing that the Chiefs could part ways with the fan-favorite star to free up some serious cap space.
Travis Kelce’s Expensive 2025 Contract Situation
Kelce, 35, signed a two-year, $34.25 million contract extension in 2024, locking him in with the Chiefs through the 2025 season. The deal included $17 million guaranteed, with an average annual salary of $17.125 million. However, his contract structure makes him a potential cap casualty.
2025 Salary Breakdown:
- $4.5 million base salary
- $12.5 million roster bonus
- $250,000 workout bonus
- Cap Hit: Kelce’s $19.8 million cap hit represents 7.18% of the team’s cap
- Potential Savings: If the Chiefs release Kelce, they could save $17 million while only taking on $2.55 million in dead cap
- March 14 Deadline: Kelce has an $11.5 million roster bonus due on March 14, adding urgency to the Chiefs’ decision
Kelce has been one of the most dominant tight ends in NFL history, but at 35, questions about his longevity are fair. The Chiefs must consider whether keeping him on the roster at nearly $20 million is worth the cost—especially as they look to build around Patrick Mahomes for the long term.
Travis Kelce’s Future: Retirement or One More Run?
Kelce has reportedly been undecided about his return for the 2025 season. He’s hinted at retirement in the past, and with a net worth of $90 million and an estimated $8 million in annual endorsements (Nike, Old Spice, Bud Light, State Farm), he doesn’t need the money.
For years, Kelce was considered underpaid, choosing loyalty over money to chase championships. But now, the Chiefs must decide whether keeping him for another season is financially feasible. With $17 million in savings on the line, cutting Kelce might not just be a possibility—it could be a real consideration.
Would the Chiefs actually release one of their biggest stars? With free agency approaching and a massive cap crunch ahead, Kelce’s future in Kansas City is far from certain.
