Travis Kelce Confirms Return for 2025 NFL Season After Super Bowl Loss

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Travis Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs’ star tight end, has officially confirmed that he will return for the 2025 NFL season, quashing retirement rumors that arose following the team’s loss in Super Bowl LIX. This announcement comes after a reflective period for the 35-year-old athlete, who expressed doubts about his future in football after the Chiefs fell to the Philadelphia Eagles, 40-22, on February 9, 2025.

Concern about Kelce’s future escalated after his underwhelming performance in the Super Bowl, which led many to speculate whether the veteran would choose to retire. Kelce engaged in discussions with Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, who encouraged him to take time to consider his options.

“He’s gonna make a killing there,” Reid said, alluding to the media and entertainment opportunities awaiting Kelce post-retirement, while also advising him to clear his mind before making a final decision.

Ultimately, it was teammate Rashee Rice who played a pivotal role in convincing Kelce to remain on the field. “I ain’t gonna lie to y’all. I’m 95 percent of the reason he ain’t retiring,” Rice remarked during an interview. “I told him he can’t go out like that. I’m gonna make sure we get that next year.”

As a symbolic gesture of his renewed commitment, Kelce debuted a fresh haircut this week, trimming his beard for a cleaner appearance ahead of the new season. His barber, Vince Garcia, showcased the updated look on Instagram, emphasizing that the change was a sign of moving forward.

Looking ahead, Kelce aims to bounce back from what he deemed a down year, finishing the 2024 season with a career-low 823 receiving yards and three touchdowns. He shared his passion for the game during a recent episode of the New Heights podcast with his brother, Jason. “The biggest thing is that I love playing the game of football. I still feel like I can play it at a high level,” he stated.

Under the continuing scrutiny of his performance, Kelce has also clarified the Chiefs’ decision regarding his future. On March 14, a significant $11.5 million active roster bonus was issued, as Chiefs management had set a March 15 deadline for him to finalize his decision. Kelce remains under contract with a base salary of $4.5 million for the upcoming season.

Since being drafted in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft, Kelce has earned his reputation as one of the greatest tight ends in league history, being named First-Team All-Pro four times and selected to 10 Pro Bowls.

As fans celebrate Kelce’s return, the Chiefs continue to bolster their roster, signing quarterback Bailey Zappe to a one-year contract. Zappe has previous experience in similar systems and aims to strengthen the team’s depth behind their starting quarterback.

With Kelce back for another season, the Chiefs franchise remains focused on regaining the championship title after their recent setback in the Super Bowl.