Travis Kelce hints at return for next NFL season
Travis Kelce appears to have signalled his intention to continue playing American football next season following remarks that have set the sporting world abuzz, reports BritPanorama.
The Kansas City Chiefs tight end spoke with evident enthusiasm on his New Heights podcast about Eric Bieniemy’s reappointment as offensive coordinator, comments which supporters and pundits alike are treating as a clear indication of his plans.
Bieniemy, who departed Kansas City in 2022, has been officially brought back to Andy Reid’s coaching staff this week after stints with the Washington Commanders, UCLA and the Chicago Bears. The 36-year-old’s excitement about reuniting with his former coach has fuelled widespread belief that retirement is not on the cards.
Speaking on the podcast, Kelce declared: “I can’t wait to see him back in the building, man. He’s one of my favourite coaches of all time, one of my favourite people of all time.” His affection for the returning coordinator was abundantly clear as he added: “It’s gonna be awesome to see him back in the building and see him back wearing the Chiefs logo, baby.”
Such sentiments have left few doubting his intentions. Whilst Kelce stopped short of making a formal announcement, he has assured the franchise that clarity will come promptly. The tight end confirmed he intends to communicate his decision to the Chiefs’ front office by early March, affording the organisation sufficient time to navigate free agency and prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft.
This approach reflects his longstanding professionalism and dedication to the team’s strategic planning. Head coach Andy Reid has already committed to remaining in his post, whilst quarterback Patrick Mahomes continues his recovery from an ACL injury with ambitions of returning for the opening week of the new campaign. Supporters have taken to social media platform X to share their interpretations of Kelce’s remarks, with one posting: “This doesn’t sound like a man that’s planning to retire.”
Another enthusiast wrote simply: “So you’re coming back!” The tight end delivered a respectable 2025/26 campaign, recording 76 receptions for 851 yards alongside five touchdowns. He currently sits merely 44 yards behind Jason Witten for second place on the all-time receiving yards list for tight ends, a milestone that may provide additional motivation for one final push.
Kelce joined Kansas City in 2013 as a third-round draft selection and has since become a future Hall of Fame certainty. As the anticipation builds around his potential return, one thing is clear: the theatre of the NFL and its players never fails to keep fans on the edge of their seats, reflecting the never-dull allure of American football.
