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What the future holds for 36-year-old Travis Kelce remains unclear as he decides whether to retire or return for a 14th NFL season.
Interestingly, Kelce is set to enter unrestricted free agency if he chooses to continue playing. While that would likely result in him re-signing with the Kansas City Chiefs — where he has spent his entire career and won three Super Bowls — it still leaves the door open for both sides to explore their options.
However, based on comments from head coach Andy Reid last week about ongoing “communication,” and general manager Brett Veach’s update at the NFL Combine regarding Kelce’s status and the team’s desire to have him back, the signs currently point toward a return.
“Coach mentioned on Friday he’s had great dialogue with Travis,” Veach said at the scouting combine in Indianapolis. “I’m sure we’re going to see [Kelce’s agent] here — just like we will all the other players’ agents — and we’ll continue that dialogue.
“But Travis is the best. He’s an icon. Hopefully, he comes back and we’ll just kind of let that process play out.”
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#Chiefs GM Brett Veach on the communication with Travis Kelce.
He says, "We're prepared for either scenario... Travis is the best, he's an icon, and hopefully, he comes back. We'll just let that process play out." pic.twitter.com/yxJu3UEF4o
When asked whether the team needs a deadline from Kelce so it doesn’t delay potential financial moves in free agency, Veach offered an honest response.
“You need some sort of deadline. But at the same time, it’s Travis Kelce," Veach added. "So we’re just going to continue to have positive dialogue and see where this thing ends. But I think we’re trying to position ourselves where either way, we have a plan moving forward.”
Kelce hasn’t surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in a season since 2022, but he remains one of the NFL’s more productive tight ends.
Last season, he recorded 76 receptions for 851 yards and five touchdowns. More than the numbers, though, it’s Kelce’s leadership and postseason experience that make him especially valuable at this stage of his career.
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