How Much Longer Will This Three-Time Super Bowl Champion Tight End Keep Playing?

Travis Kelce has been the face of consistency for the Kansas City Chiefs for nearly a decade. Even at age 35, he remains one of the most trusted and dangerous weapons in the NFL. His chemistry with Patrick Mahomes is unmatched, and his ability to show up in big games continues to make him a critical piece of the offense. As the 2025 season unfolds, the question becomes more relevant with each passing week — how much longer will Kelce keep going?

There have been small signs of decline in recent seasons. Kelce’s yards per catch have dipped slightly, and he has missed more practices for rest and recovery, which is expected for someone his age. The physical demands of his position are grueling, especially for someone who lines up in the trenches, blocks defenders, and then runs routes over the middle. Despite that, when the playoffs roll around or the Chiefs need a key third-down conversion, Kelce is still the guy Mahomes looks to first.

Off the field, Kelce is busier than ever. His podcast with his brother Jason is a massive hit, he’s taken on more media appearances, and his popularity has never been higher. These growing off-field opportunities give Kelce more options for what life after football could look like. It is becoming more likely that when he walks away from the game, it will be on his terms rather than because of any sharp decline.

The Chiefs are aware that his retirement could come at any time, and they’ve started to prepare by developing young tight ends like Noah Gray and trying to spread the ball more among receivers. Even with those efforts, there is no true replacement for Kelce’s unique mix of route-running, toughness, and leadership. He brings energy to the locker room and sets the tone in high-pressure situations. Losing that would be a major shift for Kansas City’s identity.

For now, Kelce is still playing at a high level and remains one of the most important players on the roster. As long as he is on the field, the Chiefs will continue to be contenders. His time might be limited, but his presence still shapes the team in every way. Chiefs fans should appreciate every snap because the end, whenever it comes, will mark the close of a legendary era.