Chiefs Owner Expresses Hope for Kelce's Return Amid Retirement Speculation
Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt has publicly stated that he "certainly hopes" star tight end Travis Kelce will return to play for the upcoming 2026 NFL season. However, Hunt emphasised that the organisation will not rush the veteran player into making a decision about his future, respecting the time he needs to consider his options.
Retirement Talk Lingers After Disappointing Season
Speculation about a potential retirement has surrounded Kelce, who is engaged to global music icon Taylor Swift, since the Chiefs played their final regular season game against the Las Vegas Raiders on January 4. That Week 18 loss concluded a difficult campaign for Andy Reid's team, which saw them transition from Super Bowl contenders to missing the playoffs entirely.
Despite the team's overall struggles, Kelce himself had a productive individual season, recording over 800 receiving yards and maintaining his role as a key leader on the offensive side of the ball. When questioned in the locker room after the season finale, Kelce declined to indicate whether he was leaning towards retirement.
Bieniemy's Return Fuels Excitement for Comeback
Recent reports, however, suggest a shift in momentum. Last week, it was revealed that Kelce is increasingly likely to put retirement on hold and return for one final season. A significant factor in this potential decision is the return of popular offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to Arrowhead Stadium.
A source close to the situation indicated that Kelce is "very excited" about Bieniemy's comeback, believing it could rejuvenate the Chiefs' offense. The tight end reportedly feels he performed at his peak under Bieniemy's guidance during the coach's previous five-year stint with the team.
The statistics support this connection. During Bieniemy's tenure as offensive coordinator, Kelce averaged an impressive 107.7 receptions, 1,369.4 yards, and 10 touchdowns per 17-game season. In the three seasons since Bieniemy's departure, those averages have dipped to 88.7 receptions, 941.4 yards, and 4.6 touchdowns.
Hunt Advocates for Patience and Respect
Speaking on Good Morning Football, billionaire owner Clark Hunt articulated the organisation's position. "There's no doubt in my mind that he can still play," Hunt stated regarding Kelce's abilities. He acknowledged the player's busy offseason ahead, which includes his upcoming marriage, and affirmed the Chiefs' intent to give him the necessary space to deliberate.
Hunt praised Kelce's continued leadership and production, noting that while it may not match the extraordinary levels of four or five years ago, his contribution remains vital. The owner's comments reflect a balance between organisational desire and personal respect for the veteran's decision-making process.
Final Decision Hinges on Multiple Factors
The narrative around Kelce's future has been one of back-and-forth, but recent developments suggest a return is becoming more probable. Sources indicate that Kelce is actively discussing his future with key figures including quarterback Patrick Mahomes, coach Andy Reid, and the returning Eric Bieniemy.
It is understood that Kelce wants to conclude his career on his own terms, and the combination of Bieniemy's return and the desire to play alongside Mahomes once more are powerful motivators. The source suggested it would now "take some serious convincing" for him to retire instead.
If Kelce does decide to return, a new contract will be required, as his current deal expires at the end of the present season. For now, the player has indicated he will take several weeks to spend time with family and loved ones before making any definitive announcement about his NFL future.
