Travis Kelce could return in 2026, but not with the Kansas City Chiefs, Rob Gronkowski shocks NFL fans

Travis Kelce might not conclude his NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs if he chooses to keep playing beyond the 2025 season, according to former tight end Rob Gronkowski. The longtime Chiefs icon is considering his future as retirement approaches, and a return to the league might involve a move away from the franchise he has called home for over a decade.

Gronkowski, 36, addressed Kelce’s circumstances on Fox NFL Sunday, providing his thoughts as rumors lingered about what the veteran tight end will do next.

Contract Expiration Sparks Speculation

Uncertainty surrounds Kelce’s next decision with his Chiefs contract scheduled to expire following the 2025 NFL season. While Kelce has not officially committed to either retirement or another year in the league, the timing of his contract has sparked debate about whether he could test free agency. Kelce has spent his whole career in Kansas City, being one of the most legendary players in franchise history.

How Did Kelce Become a Chiefs Legend?

Selected in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft, Kelce rapidly evolved into one of the NFL’s premier tight ends. His commitment and production helped power the Chiefs to continued success, which includes three Super Bowl championships in his tenure. Despite that legacy, Gronkowski believes Kelce could be drawn by the concept of pursuing one more title possibly with a new team.

Gronkowski Sees Parallels With His Own Career Move

The former New England Patriots icon pointed to his own late-career decision to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an example Kelce could follow. Speaking on Fox NFL Sunday, Gronkowski indicated that Kansas City may not be placed to contend for a championship in the coming season.

“I think he’s going to test the market out there and he has to vie for a championship and the Super Bowl if he comes back,” Gronkowski stated.
“I don’t really see that happening with the Kansas City Chiefs. It’s gonna be a rebuild year, kind of.”

How Difficult Was the Chiefs’ 2025 Season?

The Chiefs sustained a challenging 2025 season, failing to win the AFC West for the first time in ten years and missing the playoffs altogether. The difficulties marked a notable downturn for a team that has dominated the division for years. Those outcomes have added weight to the belief that Kansas City could be entering a transitional phase.

Are There Signs Kelce Could Be Nearing Retirement?

Kelce has earlier hinted that retirement could come at the conclusion of the 2024 season following 13 years with the franchise. Ahead of the Chiefs’ final home game in Week 17, the organization paid honor to the veteran tight end at Arrowhead Stadium.

After Kansas City’s Week 17 loss to the Denver Broncos, Kelce seemed to be visibly emotional, possibly signaling a goodbye to the stadium where he established his legendary career.

Opportunities Beyond the Playing Field

Gronkowski also emphasized that Kelce is well set up for life after football if he decides to step away at the conclusion of the season.

“They may have the potential to do it,” Gronkowski further said.
“But also, he has so many opportunities outside of the game of football.”

Still Productive on the Field

Despite the uncertainty lingering on his future, Kelce has continued to be productive in the 2025 season. He recorded 839 receiving yards and five touchdowns for the Chiefs, continuing to serve a major role in the offense. Kansas City will wrap its 2025 campaign against the 2-14 Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, a game that could represent either the final chapter of Kelce’s Chiefs career or the prelude to a fresh challenge elsewhere in the NFL.

FAQs:

Q1. Why is Travis Kelce’s future being discussed?
His contract with the Chiefs is scheduled to expire following the 2025 season. He has also hinted at potential retirement in recent years.

Q2. What did Rob Gronkowski say about Kelce?
Gronkowski indicated that Kelce could test free agency if he returns. He believes a championship opportunity will be a major factor.