Travis Kelce Back for Year 13: Undeterred and Driven
Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce is officially heading into his 13th NFL season in 2025. Despite turning 36 later this year and facing speculation about potential retirement following the Chiefs’ recent Super Bowl appearance, Kelce says the decision to return wasn’t a difficult one for him. Speaking to reporters during the Chiefs’ mandatory minicamp, Kelce offered insight into his mindset and motivations.
“I love football. I don’t think I really thought about it that much,” Kelce stated, clarifying that retirement wasn’t a strong consideration this past spring. “I love coming in to work every single day. It wasn’t a very tough one for me. I know I’m getting older, but at the same time, I still feel like I’ve got a lot I can prove in this league.”
He emphasized that once the emotions from the previous season settled, he realized he still possessed the competitive drive and “fire to compete.”
Driven by Disappointment
A significant factor fueling Kelce’s return appears to be the outcome of the most recent Super Bowl, where the Chiefs fell short against the Philadelphia Eagles. Kelce had previously mentioned on his podcast that ending his career with a loss wasn’t ideal, and that a potential retirement might have been considered more seriously only if the Chiefs had achieved a historic third consecutive Super Bowl victory.
Reflecting on his performance in that game – four catches for just 39 yards – Kelce admitted it left a “real bad taste in [his] mouth.” He candidly shared, “I felt like I failed my guys,” adding that he “really didn’t feel like it was [his] last game” afterward. This desire to redeem himself and end his career on a higher note clearly weighs heavily on the future Hall of Famer.
Proving He Still Has It
While Kelce is a 10-time Pro Bowler and seven-time All-Pro, the 2024 season saw a dip in his statistical production, particularly compared to his prime years. He finished with 823 receiving yards and three touchdowns, career lows excluding his rookie season spent mostly on the bench. His yards per reception (8.5) also represented a career low.
However, this statistical decline doesn’t tell the full story of his value or impact. Even in a down statistical year, Kelce still led the Chiefs in both receptions (97) and receiving yards and ranked highly among all NFL tight ends, finishing third in receptions and fifth in receiving yards across the league. Kelce seems to be using last year’s numbers as motivation. “Certainly feeling good, and I think it will pay off,” he said regarding his preparation.
Offseason Focus and Readiness
Determined to bounce back, Kelce’s offseason preparation has been focused. He mentioned having more time this year to concentrate on aspects like form running, something he couldn’t prioritize last offseason. While refuting reports of losing a drastic 25 pounds, he confirmed he has lost “some weight” and is feeling good.
His readiness hasn’t gone unnoticed. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes commented three weeks prior that based on Kelce’s offseason work, “If it’s his last ride, you would never know.” Mahomes reiterated this sentiment, noting Kelce has been “putting in the work this offseason, and he’s excited for another chance to make a run for it.”
Title or Bust in 2025
For Kelce, the upcoming season has one singular goal: another Super Bowl championship.
“That’s the only way I determine if it’s a successful (season) or not,” he stated emphatically. “It’s just how I’m wired now.”
Unwavering Loyalty to Kansas City
Looking beyond 2025, Kelce acknowledged his current contract is for just one more year. While his long-term future will inevitably be a topic of discussion, he made it clear where his heart lies.
“The Chiefs organization knows how much I love them,” Kelce said. “I can’t see myself ever playing anywhere else.”
He stated they will address future contract possibilities “down the road when the time is right,” but for now, his entire focus remains solely on helping the Chiefs pursue their fifth Super Bowl title in franchise history.
As the Chiefs prepare to open their season with a unique Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Kelce appears physically and mentally ready to add another chapter to his illustrious career, driven by a love for the game and the pursuit of another championship.
References
- www.nfl.com
- www.foxnews.com
- www.nbcsports.com
- bleacherreport.com
- <a href="https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/traviskelcesendsstrongretirementmessagebeforenflseason/s11761542345311″>www.yardbarker.com
