Travis Kelce addresses NFL retirement rumors, says he wants to get back to 'mountaintop'

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI: Travis Kelce is not stepping away from football just yet.

After months of speculation about his future in the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs' tight end confirmed that he will be returning for another season.

Travis Kelce says he's trying to get back to the 'mountaintop'

During an episode of 'The Pat McAfee Show' on Thursday, February 27, host Pat McAfee read a text message from Travis Kelce in which the NFL star confirmed his return.

According to the message, Kelce stated that he is "coming back for sure" for another season with the Chiefs.

"Gonna try and get to the best shape I've been this offseason and get back to the mountaintop," Kelce said, according to McAfee.

Kelce also mentioned that he was not satisfied with his performance in the Super Bowl.

"Got a real bad taste in my mouth with how I played in that last game and how I got the guys ready for battle. I can’t go out like that!!!!" Kelce added, according to McAfee.

Patrick Mahomes says Travis Kelce deserves some rest

Following the Chiefs' loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2025 Super Bowl on February 9, quarterback Patrick Mahomes shared his thoughts on Travis Kelce’s return.

Mahomes had previously said he was "not sure" whether Kelce would play another season. He acknowledged the uncertainty but added, "He's given so much to this team and to the NFL."

Mahomes also noted that Kelce has been "such a joy, not only for me to work with, but for people to watch."

About retirement, the quarterback added that he would "let Travis make that decision on his own" as he deserved rest after a long season.

Jason Kelce says Travis Kelce 'already knows what he wants to do'

Jason Kelce, who retired in March 2024, spoke about his brother’s decision on the February 21 episode of 'Steam Room.'

"I think Travis, I think he probably, in his heart, already knows what he wants to do. That’s the reality of it," Jason Kelce said, as per People. 

Earlier in December 2024, Travis had reflected on the possibility of retirement after playing in Cleveland for the second time in his 12-year career.

On the 'New Heights' podcast, he spoke about the moment, saying, "It felt so surreal. I don’t know if it’s my last time playing in Cleveland, but it felt like I was taking my last hurrah before retiring, especially since I’ve only played there twice in 12 years." Kelce added, "It was a special day for me, personally."

Kelce’s contract with the Chiefs runs through the 2025 season and he is set to receive an $11.5 million roster bonus on March 15 if he stays with the team, according to The Athletic. He was to decide about his retirement by March 14.