The Kansas City Chiefs have given Travis Kelce a deadline to decide on his retirement, according to reports
According to *The Athletic* on February 13, Travis Kelce has until March 14 to decide whether to retire from the NFL or continue his career.
The decision comes after the Chiefs’ loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII. At 35, Kelce is weighing his future with the team, and the Chiefs reportedly want clarity on his intentions before mid-March.
The rumors about Kelce’s potential retirement began circulating after the Chiefs’ tough 40-22 loss, where they entered as four-time Super Bowl champions.
Kelce’s contract with the Chiefs runs through 2025 and includes an $11.5 million roster bonus due by March 15. Additionally, the NFL’s free agency period kicks off on March 10.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was asked in a post-Super Bowl interview if he had spoken to Kelce about his plans for next season.
Mahomes responded that he would leave the decision to Kelce, acknowledging that the tight end deserves time to rest after a long and challenging season.
“He’s given so much to this team and to the NFL,” Mahomes said of Kelce. “He’s been a joy to work with, not just for me, but for everyone who’s had the chance to watch him.”
Kelce recently addressed his potential return to the NFL on the *New Heights* podcast, which he co-hosts with his brother, Jason Kelce, a former Eagles player.
The episode, released on February 12, came just days after the Chiefs’ painful loss in the Super Bowl.
Kelce shared he’s taking his decision on next season “one step at a time” and will fully commit if he decides to return. He stressed the importance of supporting each other through this time.
Reflecting on the Super Bowl loss, Kelce admitted mistakes were made across the team. “It wasn’t the play calls—it was a team effort,” he said.
He acknowledged the pain of losing again on the biggest stage, having previously lost to the Buccaneers in Super Bowl LV.
Despite the setback, Kelce’s career remains extraordinary, with 1,004 receptions, 12,151 yards, and 77 touchdowns, cementing his legacy as one of the best tight ends in NFL history.
