Chiefs general manager says Travis Kelce will return for 2025 season

In the United States, Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach expressed his confidence on February 25, 2025, regarding the return of star tight end Travis Kelce for the final year of his contract. Veach remarked that during recent conversations with Kelce, who is 35 years old, he displayed a renewed passion for the game, indicating that he is still motivated to play. This announcement comes after retirement rumors circulated following the Chiefs' loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, where Kelce had a disappointing performance with only four catches for 39 yards. Furthermore, Kelce's career stats reveal an overall dip in performance during the 2023 season, recording career lows in receiving yards and touchdowns. Nonetheless, despite these setbacks, he remained the team's leading receiver with 97 receptions. Kelce took time after the Super Bowl to contemplate his future in the sport, suggesting he felt overwhelmed in the aftermath of the loss. Although Coach Andy Reid acknowledged that Kelce needed to take a break to consider whether he would retire, indications from Veach pointed towards Kelce’s intention to continue his career. As the Chiefs are looking ahead to the 2025 season, Veach emphasized that there is no specific deadline for Kelce to make a decision regarding his return. With an $11.5 million roster bonus becoming due shortly, Veach's comments serve as a general assurance both to fans and the organization that Kelce is inclined to stay. The discussions held at the NFL combine added to the optimism around Kelce's future, creating anticipation for a potential strong comeback season stemming from his competitive drive. Both Veach and Reid’s remarks convey a desire to facilitate a positive and productive environment for Kelce should he choose to play next year. In conclusion, the Chiefs organization is optimistic and preparing for the possibility that Travis Kelce will be on the field in the 2025 season, thus alleviating concerns of his retirement and reinstating hope for the team's performance moving forward. The leadership believes in Kelce's capability to contribute significantly in what could be a swan song for the veteran athlete, and there is a shared excitement about bringing him back into the fold.