Travis Kelce is expected to return to the Kansas City Chiefs.
NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport reported on his social media account Monday morning that Kelce would return to Kansas City for a 14th season.
“He is going to turn down more money to stay in Kansas City,” Rapoport said on NFL Network, “to be loyal, to be with Patrick Mahomes and continue to have another shot at the Super Bowl.”
The one-year contract, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, is for $12 million, with a maximum value of $15 million.
An 11-time Pro Bowl and four-time All-Pro first-team selection, Kelce has spent his entire career with the Chiefs. He finished out a two-year, $34.25 million contract in 2025, and would likely sign a 1-year deal to remain in Kansas City.
Kelce, who will turn 37 during the 2026 season, led the Chiefs with 76 receptions and 851 receiving yards, fourth among NFL tight ends, last season.
Still, the Chiefs’ offense struggled for most of 2025 and Mahomes suffered season-ending torn ligaments in Week 14. His return for this season remains unknown.
Back for more: #Chiefs future Hall of Fame TE Travis Kelce is expected to return to Kansas City for a 14th season, a message that’s been delivered to teams who will want him.
At 36, Kelce’s play was at its usual level, landing him in the Pro Bowl. He’s loyal to KC & will stay. pic.twitter.com/3yiT63vvYp
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2026
This story was originally published March 9, 2026 at 11:01 AM.
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Blair Kerkhoff
The Kansas City Star
Blair Kerkhoff has covered sports for The Kansas City Star since 1989. He was elected to the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.
