The Kansas City Chiefs fell 14-12 to the Las Vegas Raiders in a pointless Week 18 matchup on January 4. Considering this might’ve been the final game of Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce’s illustrious 13-year career, it’s no storybook ending.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid told reporters after the game, “Nobody wants a season like this. It’s not what we strive for and work hard for, but there are obstacles that come into play, and you’ve got to work through those.”
After three straight runs to the Super Bowl, Kansas City finished 6-11, the team’s worst record of Kelce’s career. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 15, and it’s unclear if he’ll be ready to go at the start of next season.
Kelce, however, has nothing left to prove. He’s already a lock as a first-ballot Hall of Famer. He’s broken a long list of NFL records. Kelce’s retirement decision hinges on whether he’s ready to say goodbye to the game he loves.
HeavyChiefs star Travis Kelce warms up against the Raiders on January 4, 2026.
The 2013 third-round pick finished the season with 76 receptions, 851 yards, and five touchdowns. Kelce averaged 11.2 yards per catch, higher than his career average.
While the 36-year-old veteran might’ve been in a sour mood following the Chiefs’ sixth straight loss, Kelce’s behavior in the Raiders’ guest locker room was anything but.
Chiefs TE Travis Kelce Met With a Long Line of Teammates & Special Guests After the Raiders Game
The four-time First-Team All-Pro seems to have already processed the pain of the Chiefs’ disappointing season. KC Star’s Sam McDowell noted that Kelce initially sat alone, but only “very briefly.” Everyone wanted to check in on the tight end.
The Athletic’s Jesse Newell wrote, “Kelce’s corner locker in the visiting clubhouse nearly had the appearance of a wedding receiving line.”
He dapped up several teammates and hugged defensive backs coach Dave Merritt. Backstreet Boys member Kevin Richardson and his two sons also briefly chatted with Kelce. “Appreciate you man,” Richardson said.
If Kelce has already made a decision, there were no obvious hints. No grand gestures before leaving. Newell wrote, “After his talk with reporters — and the cameras had dispersed — Kelce pulled a green Louis Vuitton bag strap over his shoulder, securing it before exiting out of the back of the locker room.”
Travis Kelce Spoke to Reporters for 3 Minutes After the Game
GettyChiefs tight end Travis Kelce at Allegiant Stadium on January 04, 2026.
Kelce kept his message to reporters brief as they all had the same question. “Who knows? Who knows?” Kelce said about his possible retirement. “Either it hits me quick, or I gotta take some time. Last year was a little bit easier. I think I knew right away I wanted to give this one a shot. I don’t know. We’ll see.”
“I felt like I came into the season prepared and ready to rock ‘n’ roll with the right intentions,” he added. “The ball just didn’t go our way in a lot of those games, unfortunately. If I do choose to come back, that’s something I’ve really got to focus on — making sure that I’m available and ready for those moments.”
Kelce, who would need a new contract before a possible return to the Chiefs, is expected to announce his final decision before free agency starts in March.
“I’ve got so much love for this team, this organization and the people here,” Kelce said. “I’ll spend some time with them, go through exit meetings and get close to the family and figure things out.”
Travis Kelce’s Behavior in Locker Room Draws Attention After Chiefs Loss