Travis Kelce reflects on a tough season as retirement questions linger

The 2025 NFL season was not easy for Travis Kelce. The Kansas City Chiefs didn't make the playoffs for the first time in years. The veteran tight end acknowledged that the season was rough on him both physically and mentally.

As people began to think more and more about his future in football as the season came to an end. Retirement became a real possibility.

Travis Kelce reflects on 2025-26 season

Kelce, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, described this year as a time of reflection. Speaking after the season finale, the 36-year-old shared that he plans to spend time with his family and take a step back before making any decisions about returning."I really love this team and this organization," Kelce said. "I need to spend time with the family and really think things over."

Statistically, this season was one of the toughest of Kelce’s career. While he still remained productive, the usual dominance fans had come to expect was not always there. The Chiefs struggled to find consistency, and injuries played a major role in the team’s downfall.The worst thing that happened was Patrick Mahomes's knee injury, which terminated his season.

Without their great quarterback, the Chiefs' offense lost its rhythm, and Kelce had to deal with extra defensive pressure all the time. Kansas City had a bad record of 6-11, which halted a long streak of making the playoffs.

Kelce still made history, even though circumstances were terrible. In the last game of the season, he became the fastest tight end in NFL history to reach 13,000 career receiving yards. It was a reminder that even in a tough year, his legacy is still powerful.

Travis Kelce's legacy

You don't have to mention anything about what Kelce has done in his career. He has been named to the Pro Bowl eleven times, the All-Pro seven times, and the Super Bowl three times. He also has a lot of postseason records for tight ends, such as the most catches and receiving yards.

Kelce has been a leader and a symbol of the Chiefs' golden age, and not only because of his stats. He has a connection with the fans and the people of Kansas that extends beyond football, which makes it even more emotional that he might depart.Kelce could retire, but he hasn't ruled out coming back. He made it clear that he will only play for the Chiefs again. Kelce has a lot going on in his life besides football. He has a well-known podcast, more chances to be in the news, and a high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift.Beyond numbers, Kelce has been a leader and a symbol of the Chiefs’ golden era. His connection with the fans and the city of Kansas City goes far beyond football, making his potential departure even more emotional.Also Read: Andy Reid signals major offseason decisions ahead for the Chiefs