Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has confirmed he will suit up for the team’s remaining three regular-season games, even after the franchise was eliminated from playoff contention and quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a season-ending torn ACL.
The 36-year-old future Hall of Famer emphasized his commitment to the team and fans following Friday’s practice ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Tennessee Titans (December 21, 2025).
“It’s just integrity, man,” Kelce said. “I signed up to be a Chief, and I love doing what I do… I’m going to make sure these guys know I’m out there giving them everything I got.”
The Chiefs’ final slate includes:
- at Tennessee Titans (Sunday, December 21)
- vs. Denver Broncos (Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium)
- at Las Vegas Raiders (Week 18, date TBD)
These contests could potentially be the last of Kelce’s legendary career, as he is in the final year of his contract and plans to decide on retirement or a return by early March 2026, ahead of free agency.
Kelce deflected questions about his future, saying: “I’d rather just keep the focus on this team right now… I’ve got three games left. Just trying to make sure everybody here knows that I’m focused on trying to win these last three games.”
The veteran expressed heartbreak over Mahomes’ injury, which occurred in the closing minutes of last week’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers that sealed Kansas City’s playoff elimination—the first time in the Mahomes era.
“That’s my brother. I know everything he’s going through,” Kelce said of the star QB, who underwent successful surgery to repair his torn left ACL and LCL. “It sucks, man, but… Chiefs Kingdom deserves us to go out there and play our hearts out for them.”
Despite the disappointing 6-8 season, Kelce has enjoyed a resurgent year, leading the Chiefs with 92 targets, 67 receptions, 797 receiving yards, 5 touchdowns, and 42 receiving first downs. His 409 yards after the catch rank third among tight ends, showcasing regained explosiveness from dedicated offseason training.
Head coach Andy Reid praised Kelce’s performance: “I thought he’s had a heck of a year… great leadership… He made that a point this offseason and really focused in, coming in great shape.”
If Kelce gains 203 yards over the final three games, he would become the oldest tight end in NFL history to reach 1,000 receiving yards in a season—a milestone he says he’d only chase alongside team wins.
“You could roll the balls out in a Walmart parking lot, man. Sign me up, baby,” Kelce quipped about his passion for playing. “If I get a chance to play in the NFL, I’m going to do it.”
