Throughout the week leading up to the Super Bowl 2026, chatter is picking up around Travis Kelce.
The Chiefs tight end, who has faced swirling retirement rumors since the end of Kansas City’s season, has many close to him believing that he will likely return for at least one more season, per The Athletic’s Dianna Russini.
Kelce, 36, also has reportedly been bouncing between different parties and events in San Francisco ahead of the big game.
While a final decision hasn’t been made, showing his face during the league’s biggest week has led to suspicions that he might be coming back for a 14th season.
The Chiefs’ door is also seemingly open for the three-time Super Bowl champion.
Earlier this week, Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said on “Good Morning Football” he wants to give Kelce the space to pull over the decision, but believes he has more to show before calling it quits.
“He had another great year, maybe not on par with where he was four or five years ago, but still had over 800 yards, and was really one of the leaders on the offensive side of the ball for us,” Hunt said Tuesday.
“So, there’s no doubt in my mind that he can still play. We’re trying to be respectful and let him have the time that he needs to make a decision.”
In back-to-back seasons, Kelce has gone out on a sour note.
The 2024 campaign ended with the Chiefs coming up short in their quest for a Super Bowl three-peat after a blowout loss to the Eagles.
This past season, Kansas City missed the playoffs, snapping a streak of 10 consecutive seasons reaching the postseason.
Kelce had an improved season despite the team’s down year, racking up 851 yards and five touchdowns compared to 823 yards and three touchdowns in 2024.
Still, the past two seasons may have left a bad taste in his mouth.
It will be a big decision and one of many for Kelce this offseason.
The 11-time Pro Bowler is also set to get married to pop star Taylor Swift after Kelce popped the question ahead of the 2025 season.
One thing that could influence Kelce’s decision is the return of offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to old role as Matt Nagy’s contract expired.
Bieniemy won two rings with the Chiefs in 2019 and 2022.
