The Kansas City Chiefs' playoff chances are gone entering Week 16, something the franchise hasn't experienced since 2014. It's a different feeling, but the Chiefs are still looking to finish the season out strong. Tight end Travis Kelce's retirement rumors have been swirling for months now and have kicked into another gear lately, but that isn't what he's thinking about.
When asked about his future, Kelce made it clear that it isn't on his mind entering Week 16. Instead, he's focused on finishing things out strong in 2026.
"I’d rather keep the focus on this team, right now. All the conversations I have with the team moving forward will be with them. It’s a unique time in my life. I’ve got three games left, and I know when the season ends," Kelce said, via Nate Taylor of ESPN.
Travis Kelce Is Fully Focused on Finishing 2025 Season Strong
Kelce knows that rumors of him stepping away have only grown louder, but he understands there is no need to feed into that speculation while the current season is still ongoing. His comments make it clear he isn't going to entertain retirement talks with the media and will keep those discussions, whenever they do happen, between him and the team.
That may come as a surprise to some, considering that Kelce has been a staple in Kansas City for the past 13 seasons. With nothing to play for in terms of fighting for a playoff spot or seeding, many assumed he would want to take a step back. And most fans wouldn't be upset at him for that, but that isn't what he wants to do.
If this is Kelce's final run with the Chiefs, he wants to go out keeping the attention on the team rather than himself. The bonds created with other guys in the locker room are lifelong relationships, and being able to suit up with them is something players don't take lightly.
If the 36-year-old made any public revelations about his next career steps, it would overtake all the conversations around the team. Instead of doing that, Kelce continues to be a leader and put the team first, which is something he's done throughout his career.
Those conversations around Kelce will be a major talking point when the season officially comes to a close, so from his perspective, what's the point of rushing it?
He's one of the best players to ever suit up for the Chiefs, and he knows the weight that news would carry. If these are the final few games of his career, keeping it about the team seems like the right call. There's nothing that compares to being a part of a football team and a locker room. Something about playing with your teammates who become like your brothers provides a different feeling, and Kelce wants to keep the focus on that.
All the extra stuff doesn't need to be expressed to the public yet. When the time is right, the message will be relayed, but it's obvious that time isn't now.