Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs did not get the storybook ending that they and their fans hoped for. A dominant three-year run ended just one win short of a “three-peat” after the Philadelphia Eagles handled them 40-22 in Super Bowl LIX. The Chiefs now face a crucial offseason. The threat of their contenders, namely the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens, is more real than ever. Kansas City also has a number of key free agents hitting the market in the coming weeks. That means there is some serious strategizing in order for the team’s roster construction heading into next season. However, some of that planning hinges on one major decision. Future Hall of Famer Travis Kelce has contemplated retirement with many believing a win in Super Bowl LIX would have put a bow on a historic career for the Chiefs’ tight end. Following the game though, Kelce was reluctant to share any answers concerning his future. He has not given any final answers on the matter since, leaving the door open for rampant speculation. Some believe there is little value in Kelce returning to the game. He is a three-time Super Bowl champion and arguably the best to ever play at his position. However, one of the other tight ends in that conversation has sounded off on what he thinks Kelce should do. “I believe he can go at least another 2 years,” he said during an appearance on “Up and Adams” this week. “We’re talking his stats being down. How are your stats down if you have 80 plus catches at 35 years old?” Kelce finished the season with 97 receptions for 823 yards and three touchdowns. While receptions are pretty on par with what he has shown through his prime years, the latter two ended as career lows.
His and Mahomes’ connection remained evident though not as dangerous, so there will certainly be a spot for him if he returns. The Chiefs as an offense, however, must find more production and explosiveness from their receivers whether Kelce retires or not. Ultimately, the decision rests on the future Hall of Famer. Perhaps he sees the end of the road here and wants to explore opportunities outside of football. But if one of the greats sees more left in the tank for Kelce, there is a chance the Chiefs’ legend could see that as well.
