Patrick Mahomes Makes First Comments on Travis Kelce Retirement Possibility
By Cem Yolbulan
After the Kansas City Chiefs were embarrassed by the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 59, the attention immediately turned to the offseason. Accepting the defeat and that Philadelphia outplayed them, the Chiefs were already focused on the future in their postgame comments.
One of the biggest questions for the Chiefs' offseason remains the future of Travis Kelce. The star tight end has hinted at the possibility of retiring after this season all year but never closed the door on a potential return.
In his pre-Super Bowl remarks, Kelce failed to provide any more certainty. After the game, Patrick Mahomes addressed Kelce's potential retirement.
Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes on Travis Kelce potentially retiring: "I know he still has love for the game. He'll get time to spend with his family and make that decision on his own. He'll be welcomed back here with open arms."
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) February 10, 2025
Chiefs News: Patrick Mahomes Leaves Door Open for Travis Kelce Return
Mahomes didn't reveal where Kelce stands in terms of retirement vs. return but said the team would obviously welcome him back with open arms, per Chiefs insider Charles Goldman. The star QB said Kelce would take some time to think about his decision with his family.
In his age-35 season, Kelce had a down campaign. The best tight end to ever play the game was still solid, putting up 823 yards and three touchdowns and earning Pro Bowl honors, but he wasn't as productive as he was in his heyday.
Whether Sunday's loss makes it more or less likely that Kelce returns for another year in Kansas City is unclear. NFL free agency begins March 12 and Kelce is expected to make a decision by then.
Kelce has a base salary of $4.5 million for 2025 and a roster bonus of $11.5 million due on March 14. While that may seem like a lot of money to leave on the table for Kelce, he has done an excellent job setting himself up for a post-NFL career.
Thanks to his media appearances and growing popularity, he doesn't need to play for another season solely for financial purposes. However, whether the love of the game and a desire to win another Super Bowl overpower the appeal of retirement for Kelce remains to be seen.
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