Travis Kelce appears to have signalled his intention to continue playing American football next season following remarks that have set the sporting world abuzz.
The Kansas City Chiefs tight end spoke with evident enthusiasm on his New Heights podcast about Eric Bieniemy's reappointment as offensive coordinator, comments which supporters and pundits alike are treating as a clear indication of his plans.
Bieniemy, who departed Kansas City in 2022, has been officially brought back to Andy Reid's coaching staff this week after stints with the Washington Commanders, UCLA and the Chicago Bears.
The 36-year-old's excitement about reuniting with his former coach has fuelled widespread belief that retirement is not on the cards.
Travis Kelce has revealed he is excited about Eric Bieniemy's reappointment as offensive coordinator
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Speaking on the podcast, Kelce declared: "I can't wait to see him back in the building, man. He's one of my favourite coaches of all time, one of my favourite people of all time."
The veteran tight end continued with unmistakable warmth: "I've had so many unbelievable growing moments under him as a player, as a person, and I just love the guy."
His affection for the returning coordinator was abundantly clear as he added: "It's gonna be awesome to see him back in the building and see him back wearing the Chiefs logo, baby."
Such sentiments have left few doubting his intentions.
There has been rampant speculation over Travis Kelce's future in NFL
|REUTERS
Whilst Kelce stopped short of making a formal announcement, he has assured the franchise that clarity will come promptly.
The tight end confirmed he intends to communicate his decision to the Chiefs' front office by early March, affording the organisation sufficient time to navigate free agency and prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft.
This approach reflects his longstanding professionalism and dedication to the team's strategic planning.
Head coach Andy Reid has already committed to remaining in his post, whilst quarterback Patrick Mahomes continues his recovery from an ACL injury with ambitions of returning for the opening week of the new campaign.
Supporters have taken to social media platform X to share their interpretations of Kelce's remarks, with one posting: "This doesn't sound like a man that's planning to retire."
Travis Kelce is currently mulling over NFL retirement | GETTYAnother enthusiast wrote simply: "So you're coming back!"
The tight end delivered a respectable 2025/26 campaign, recording 76 receptions for 851 yards alongside five touchdowns.
Travis Kelce has had a good season despite a tough year for the Chiefs | PA He currently sits merely 44 yards behind Jason Witten for second place on the all-time receiving yards list for tight ends, a milestone that may provide additional motivation for one final push.
Kelce joined Kansas City in 2013 as a third-round draft selection and has since become a future Hall of Fame certainty.