Travis Kelce reveals 1 key thing motivating about Chiefs return

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce isn't quite ready to ride off into the sunset just yet, as he returns for a 14th NFL season.

With the Chiefs making a big splash as free agency began, signing Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker, with Travis returning, the offense once again appears to be in good shape.

Kelce wasn't always so steadfast on returning, although many believe he wasn't seriously contemplating retirement, but as it turns out, he had help in determining his path for 2026.

And while he was a guest on the Pat McAfee Show, Travis detailed what motivated him to come back for another crack at a Super Bowl.

"I think the biggest thing coming back was that we got to be even hungrier than we've been before," Kelce said. "Talking to Pat[Mahomes], talking to coach Reid and the guys, there's a lot of dog mentality right now to get this thing fixed, and that mentality itself is already kind of motivating me to get to where I need to be during the season."

More: Chiefs fans will love Travis Kelce's quote on returning in 2026

What can we expect from Kelce in 2026?

Well, in 2025, Kelce, while not as prolific as in other seasons, still topped all the major offensive categories for the Chiefs on offense (catches, yards, receptions, TDs).

So, the production was there.

But as we look ahead to 2026, the idea would be that Kelce isn't the dominant force in the passing game. Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and others have to shoulder the load. So, too, Walker and the run game.

Yes, there will be games. Kelce has a big impact, but the Chiefs, hopefully, won't be relying on him week in, week out, as they have done in the past.

Although I'm sure Travis would be just fine being the dominant player on the field each week.

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