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Travis Kelce to Take Weeks to Decide 2026 Return as Chiefs Face Uncertain Offseason

NFL Network reports he will weigh his future after Week 18, with any return expected to be only with Kansas City.

Overview

  • Insider Ian Rapoport says Kelce is undecided and may have already played his final game at Arrowhead, with a decision expected in the weeks after the season.
  • Kelce told reporters he will make the call with family and the Chiefs after the schedule ends, as Kansas City closes at the Raiders in Week 18.
  • The 36-year-old is set to hit free agency with his two-year, $34.25 million deal expiring; he earned an 11th straight Pro Bowl with 73 catches for 839 yards and five touchdowns.
  • Teammate Chris Jones publicly urged Kelce to return for one more year, while Rob Gronkowski offered speculative commentary about testing the market, which contrasts with reporting that points to Chiefs-or-retirement.
  • Kansas City is 6–10 and out of the playoffs for the first time since 2014; Andy Reid says he plans to coach in 2026 and noted Patrick Mahomes is rehabbing his ACL/LCL injury and will not travel for Week 18, as analysts discuss cap pressure and a high draft pick.