The Decision to Comeback
Travis Kelce, the 10-time Pro Bowler and tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, has confirmed he will return for a 13th NFL season. Speaking on his "New Heights" podcast with brother Jason Kelce, Travis revealed his determination to contribute even more to the team in the upcoming season. "I still feel like I can play at a high level and possibly at a higher level than I did last year," he stated.
Travis’s 2025 season didn’t align with his usual high standards. The 2025 regular season marked the fewest receiving yards (823), touchdowns (3), and yards per reception (8.5) of his NFL career, excluding his rookie year. He also had only one touchdown in the postseason—his lowest total since 2018. Travis recognized this underperformance and has a clear goal to achieve more.
Why Travis Chose to Return?
| Factors | Reasoning |
|---|---|
| Performance Unlockable Potential | Travis recognized areas for improvement and feels he has the potential for a higher level of play in the coming season. |
| End-of-Year Super Bowl Loss | In Super Bowl 59 Travis does not feel he reached his potential, resulting in a thirst for a successful next season. |
| Responsibility | Fulfillment of his contractual obligations to give Kansas City and the Chiefs organization his all. |
The 40-22 Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles was name "the biggest factor" in Travis’s return decision. In that game, he had only four catches for 39 yards, his lowest total in his five Super Bowl appearances.
The All-Time Low
I have a bad taste in my mouth in how I ended the year and how well I was playing and how accountable I was for the people around me. – Travis Kelce {}
While acknowledging the Super Bowl performance didn’t go his way, Travis highlighted his stats in the previous seasons which have been consistently high.
Kelce’s Impact on the Kansas City Chiefs
Travis has been instrumental in Kansas City’s success. Travis has helped contribute to Five Super Bowl appearances, three championships, as well as playoff records and leading as the tight end for 1,000-yard seasons.
Travis Kelce’s impact off the football field is just as notable. He transitioned into a multimedia personality with hosting gigs and guest-appearances. He has also been in a lively and public relationship with pop-star Taylor Swift.
While Kelce is signed with Kansas City for one more season, he remains non-committal about this being his last NFL year. He may come back next season.
FAQs on Travis Kelce’s Decision and Future Potential
- What motivated Travis Kelce to return after the disappointing 2025 season?
Travis Kelce’s primary motivation is to fulfill his obligations to the Kansas City Chiefs. He believes he has the potential to unlock a higher level of performance in 2026 while fulfilling his role.
- How did Travis Kelce perform during the 2025 season?
In 2025, Travis Kelce had a relatively low-performing season with 823 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns, and 8.5 yards per reception—a stark contrast to his usual high performance metrics.
- Why is Travis Kelce returning to the NFL in 2026?
Travis Kelce cited a responsibility to fulfill his contract and deliver his best to the Chiefs organization. This season will mark his second consecutive year in the NFL after a career-threatening intense season.
If I’m being honest, I don’t think there is a single factor that was the culprit. I think it should be called the season of ‘intense lows’ followed by ‘severe depths’. The performance I felt in my bones definitely didn’t show through which low points did keep me down though! – Travis Kelce
What Are Your Thoughts on Travis Kelce Continuing His Career?
Leave a comment below to share your thoughts on Travis Kelce’s decision to return. Do you think he can bounce back to his previous high levels of performance?