Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce made an emotional return to his home state of Ohio last weekend, suiting up against the Cleveland Browns.
Kelce’s stat line – four receptions for 27 yards – was modest by his standards, but the significance of the game went far beyond the numbers.
During this week’s episode of his podcast, New Heights, Kelce opened up about what the experience meant to him.
The nine-time Pro Bowler admitted that Sunday’s game felt like a farewell of sorts to his hometown crowd, sparking speculation about his NFL future.
“It felt so surreal,” he said. “I don’t know if it’s the last time I’ll play in Cleveland but it kinda felt like I was giving it one last hoorah before I’m done because I’ve only played there twice in 12 years… It was a special day for me personally.”
Kelce’s heartfelt comments have fueled rumors about his possible retirement in the near future.
The 34-year-old signed a two-year, $34.25 million contract extension with the Chiefs earlier this year, keeping him under contract through the 2025 season.
While he hasn’t made any official announcements, there’s growing speculation that he could hang up his cleats once that deal expires.
If that’s the case, last weekend may indeed have marked Kelce’s final performance in Cleveland, making his emotional reflection even more poignant.
This isn’t the first time Kelce has hinted at the end of his career.
Over the summer, he shared that the pursuit of a historic three-peat was a major motivator for his return this season.
“I think the excitement of the challenge of this year, being able to maybe do it a third time in a row, I think that alone was all I needed,” he said.
While it’s clear that the Chiefs aren’t quite as dominant as they’ve been in years past, their hopes for that three-peat are very much alive.
Though his production this season – 84 receptions for 709 yards and two touchdowns – has dipped compared to his usual All-Pro-type numbers, his impact on the field and in the locker room remains undeniable.
As the playoffs loom, Kelce will have a chance to recharge and potentially deliver another postseason masterpiece.
Whether or not this season will be his swan song, Kelce’s legacy as a future Hall of Famer is firmly cemented.
What are your thoughts on Kelce’s comments?
Do you think this or next year will be his last? … Or can you see him playing beyond his current contract???
