Travis Kelce is weighing what comes next after the Kansas City Chiefs’ season, and several recent developments have intensified speculation about what his future may look like — both on and off the field.
A source told People that Kelce, 36, has been in talks with networks and streaming services about a post-NFL career. However, the source emphasized that those conversations are not new and are not tied to Kelce’s decision about returning for a 14th NFL season.
“Travis has been in discussions with every major streaming service, including Netflix, and every major network for the past several years,” the source said. “And that is not affecting his decision whether or not he is returning to football because those discussions have been happening for the past several years.”
Kelce has not yet publicly announced his next step. The Chiefs’ season ending early created a different type of offseason than Kelce has experienced in recent years, and his timeline remains unclear.
Travis Kelce Addresses Decision Timeline After Chiefs’ Final Game
Kelce spoke with reporters after the Chiefs played their final game of the season on Sunday, Jan. 4, and said he planned to take time before deciding his future.
According to Kelce, he intended to go through the usual end-of-season process with the organization before making any personal decision.
He said he would spend time with the team, complete exit meetings, and “get close to the family and figure things out.”
Kelce also suggested he does not have a set timetable for making a final call.
As for when a decision might come, Kelce said, “either it hits me quick or I gotta take some time.” He also referenced how the process felt different last year.
“I think last year was a little bit easier,” Kelce added.
The Future Hall of Famer Jokes He’s ‘Officially Jobless’ on ‘New Heights’
Kelce added to the discussion about his future during the Wednesday, Jan. 7 episode of his podcast “New Heights,” which he co-hosts with his older brother, Jason Kelce.
In a joking exchange, Kelce framed his current work situation as if his football season ending put him out of work — at least temporarily.
“I am officially jobless,” Travis told Jason during the episode. “Actually, this is my only job.”
Kelce is also preparing for a major personal milestone, as he continues planning his upcoming wedding to fiancée Taylor Swift. The engagement has drawn attention to what his post-Chiefs life could look like.
Travis Kelce Could Be a Top Broadcast Candidate After Football
The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand discussed Kelce’s outlook in television on his “Marchand Sports Media” podcast, saying Kelce could be one of the most sought-after candidates for jobs in the broadcast booth if he decides to retire.
“I think Travis Kelce is one who, if he retires, definitely could do TV,” Marchand said. “I think he wants to do games, so that’s one to watch.”
Marchand added that Kelce could command a high salary, potentially exceeding what many former NFL players currently working in television are earning.
Kelce’s existing media resume includes hosting “New Heights” and appearances across entertainment platforms, including reality TV and “Saturday Night Live.” He has also taken on acting work, including a role in Adam Sandler’s Netflix film “Happy Gilmore 2.”
Patrick Mahomes Weighed In on Kelce’s Future
Kelce’s longtime quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, also addressed the possibility of Kelce nearing the end of his NFL career.
After a loss to the Houston Texans, Mahomes was asked whether this could be Kelce’s final season. Mahomes said he values every year they have together, noting that nothing is guaranteed in the NFL.
“Every season that I’ve had with him these last few years, I try to cherish because you never know,” Mahomes said.
Mahomes also pointed to Kelce’s performance and preparation this season.
“He got himself in great shape this year and he’s played great football,” Mahomes said, adding that Kelce “will have the option to do whatever he wants to do after this season.”
Mahomes also said Kelce remained focused on giving maximum effort as the team pushed toward the end of its season.
“I know one thing is he’ll give everything he has the rest of this season to try and give us a chance to make a playoff run,” Mahomes said. “We know the chances are getting lower and lower, but I know the guys on this team are going to give everything they have every opportunity they get.”
For now, Kelce has not ruled out a return. But as his media opportunities continue and his public comments keep the door open, attention remains fixed on whether his next major move will happen in football — or after it.
Travis Kelce’s Recent Moves Hint at Life After the Chiefs