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Nov 24, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) makes a cut during the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
December 19, 2024 By  AFC West, Kansas City Chiefs, NFL

‘One Last Hoorah’: Kansas City Chiefs TE Travis Kelce’s Retirement Hint Sets Social Media Ablaze

Death, taxes, and retirement rumors surrounding Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and tight end Travis Kelce in December. Kelce sparked rumors of his impending retirement this week when he made a bold statement on the New Heights Podcast.

Kelce and Reid were the subject of retirement rumors during the postseason for the 2023 season. Both vowed to return for a chance at a three-peat this season, and both were rewarded with new deals in the offseason.

Related: Patrick Mahomes’ injury gets update at Wednesday’s practice

At 35, Kelce is starting to slow down a little bit. He’s caught 84 passes for 709 yards but has just two touchdown receptions with three games left in the regular season. With Kelce’s off-the-field life taking off, he might decide to take off his cleats for the last time after the postseason, which the 13-1 Chiefs are headed to in January.

Kansas City Chiefs TE Travis Kelce hints at future retirement

Nov 29, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) runs with the ball against Las Vegas Raiders safety Isaiah Pola-Mao (20) during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Nov 29, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) runs with the ball against Las Vegas Raiders safety Isaiah Pola-Mao (20) during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

While talking about the Chiefs’ 21-7 victory over the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field, Kelce discussed how he felt to be in his home state of Ohio. Kelce suggested he might have played his lame game in Cleveland.

“And I don’t know if it’s the last time I’ll ever play in Cleveland, but it kind of felt like I was, like, giving it one last hoorah before I’m done,” Kelce said. “Because, you know, I’ve only played there twice in 12 years, so unless we get thrown on there in the next couple, I don’t really see it ever happening again. And it was just a special day for me personally, man.”

Kelce used the word “couple,” which indicates he plans on playing for at least two more seasons. However, he could decide to say goodbye if the Chiefs lose in the playoffs or win the three-peat. Or maybe he and Reid will try and chase a four-peat.

NFL Fans react to Kelce’s message

Kansas City Chiefs
Dec 15, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) gives his gloves to a fan following a game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

Fans on social media had their takes on what Kelce’s words meant.

“He’s played there 2x in 12 years. Doesn’t mean he’s going to retire rn. Just means he prob won’t play there again. Not much to see here,” wrote a fan.

“I think if we 3 peat this year he will seriously consider retirement at the end of his current contract which ends after next season,” posted another.

Figure we play there once every six years since Cleveland never wins the division. Very reasonable for him to not expect to play there again,” suggested a fan.

“He needs to. Bro is washed,” wrote another.
“I mean, his lady is a billionaire. And he’s a shell of himself. No brainer to retire,” posted a fan.
“I think Kelce will retire next year or in a few years at least, but not because of that comment,” wrote a fan. “That is not a hint that he is going to retire In twelve years he’s played there twice, averaging once every six years. That would mean he expects to have retired in the next 6 years.”
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Nov 10, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) talks with head coach Andy Reid against the Denver Broncos during the second half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

 

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Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and NFL news, click here!

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About Jordan Sigler

Jordan Sigler is a sports journalist. He writes about sports for Wisconsin Sports Heroics, ChiCitySports, and Gridiron Heroics. His craft has been nationally syndicated for Yardbarker, MSN, and Bleacher Report.

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