The possibility of Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end Travis Kelce retiring has intensified following the team’s loss to the Denver Broncos on December 25.
Taylor Swift, Kelce’s partner, was present at Arrowhead Stadium during the Christmas Day game, witnessing the Chiefs’ 20-13 defeat in what turned out to be a challenging season, eliminating them from playoff contention.
As Kelce departed the field, surrounded by cameras, he appeared to absorb the atmosphere with fans eagerly anticipating his decision on whether this season would be the last for the three-time Super Bowl champion.
Head coach Andy Reid, who started with the Chiefs alongside Kelce in 2013, attempted to quell the retirement rumors during a post-game press conference. Despite reporters focusing on the 36-year-old’s potential retirement, Reid stated, “We’ll talk another time about all of that,” as per ESPN’s Nate Taylor, before steering the conversation elsewhere.
Prior to the game, Reid lauded Kelce for his contributions both on and off the field, noting his influence through the popular New Heights podcast and his relationship with Swift, which has attracted new fans to the NFL.
Reid expressed in a pre-game briefing, “He’s everything you want from a player representing an organization. A phenomenal person, great for the community.”
Kelce is expected to play again on January 4 when the Chiefs face the Los Angeles Raiders, who have struggled this season with two wins against 13 losses.
During the post-game conference, Kelce addressed questions about his future, stating, “Honestly, I’ve just been focused on trying to win football games, man.” While remaining discreet, he acknowledged that discussions about his career are ongoing, adding, “I’ll let that be a decision I make with my family, friends, [and] the Chiefs organization when the time comes.”
Regardless of his decision, the game against the Broncos will likely be Kelce’s final appearance at Arrowhead Stadium.
Recently, it was revealed that the Chiefs will relocate to a new $3 billion stadium with a domed roof in Wyandotte County, Kansas, potentially hosting future Super Bowl events.
Although the move has sparked controversy among fans in Missouri, Reid expressed enthusiasm for the new stadium, stating on December 22, “It doesn’t matter if it’s here or Kansas. We’re not moving to Florida or somewhere else. We’re right here. We’ve always had Kansas people come here to the Missouri side, and it’ll be likewise the other way. That’s the beautiful thing about it.”