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Travis Kelce Reveals Personal Condition for Potential Return With Chiefs
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- Travis Kelce Reveals Personal Condition for Potential Return With Chiefs
Travis Kelce 's 13th season with the Kansas City Chiefs came to an end on Sunday. It was far from the fairy tale ending the four-time All-Pro tight end was hoping for as the Chiefs suffered a 14-12 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders .
The Chiefs entered the final game of the season out of playoff contention. Nevertheless, they had an opportunity to end their season on a high note against one of the worst teams in the league.
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Kelce and Co., however, failed to do just that, resulting in their sixth consecutive loss to close out the campaign. The Raiders, meanwhile, picked up just their third win of the season.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis KelceAmy Kontras-Imagn Images
Kelce finished with just three catches for 12 yards. Instead of his performance or the Chiefs' latest defeat, most of the questions directed at him after the game were focused on the 36-year-old's future with the team.
Kelce gave nothing away, though. Once again, the 11-time Pro Bowler deflected any and all questions about his potential retirement. According to the Chiefs star, he will make his announcement at the right time.
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He refused to close the door on a potential return next season. When asked if he believed he had accomplished his goals this season, he responded candidly.
"Yeah, obviously we didn't do as well as a team, but I felt like I came into the season prepared and ready to rock and roll with the right intentions," Kelce said . "And the ball just didn't go our way in a lot of those close games, unfortunately.
"And I think if I do choose to come back, that's something I really gotta focus on and making sure that I'm available and that I'm ready for those moments."
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Kelce hinted at a return in 2026, along with a personal condition. He said his goal is to perform better in close games if he decides to come back next season.
Related: Travis Kelce's NFL Career Stats May Now Be Final After Chiefs-Raiders
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
