As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for the 2026 NFL season, one of the biggest questions lingering around the team is the future of Travis Kelce, their future Hall of Fame tight end. With the Super Bowl LX now in the rearview mirror, Kelce is once again faced with the decision of whether to continue his legendary career or step away from the game.

A Year of Reflection: Kelce’s Career and Future

At 36 years old, Travis Kelce is not only a key part of the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense but also one of the most iconic figures in NFL history. After a resurgent 2025 season, Kelce reasserted his position as one of the best tight ends in the game, defying the odds and proving he can still perform at an elite level. However, despite his success, Kelce’s future is far from certain.

A year ago, Kelce was in a similar situation, entering the Super Bowl while contemplating his next move after the season. Ultimately, he returned to the Chiefs and played a pivotal role in their ongoing success. Now, it seems like a similar storyline is unfolding. Kelce has not made any definitive decisions on his future yet, but sources indicate that there have already been discussions between the Chiefs and their star tight end about a potential return for 2026.

Kansas City’s Plan for Kelce’s Return

The Chiefs are determined to bring Kelce back for another season. According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, the plan is to reconvene after the Super Bowl to finalize a deal that works for both parties. While the Chiefs would love to keep Kelce on the team, the contract situation remains a bit more complicated.

Contract and Salary Cap Challenges

Kelce’s current contract, a two-year, $34.25 million extension, expired at the end of the 2025 season. As a result, he would need a new deal to return for 2026. However, the Chiefs’ salary cap situation complicates matters. Kansas City is currently over the cap by more than $50 million, which will require some financial gymnastics to get under the cap. While it’s certainly not a major issue for the Chiefs, the process could take some time, with the team likely needing to make adjustments into March before finalizing their plans.

Despite the challenges, there is strong optimism that Kelce will return to the Chiefs for another season. His importance to the offense and leadership in the locker room are invaluable, and the Chiefs understand how crucial it is to keep him on the team as they continue their Super Bowl ambitions.

Kelce’s Connection with Eric Bieniemy: A Hint Toward His Return?

One clue that may point to Kelce’s return is his recent comments about the return of Eric Bieniemy as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator. Bieniemy, who was with the Chiefs for several seasons before leaving for other opportunities, has been a key figure in Kelce’s development as a player. On his New Heights podcast, Kelce expressed his excitement about Bieniemy’s return, saying:

“I can’t wait to see him back in the building, man. He’s one of my favorite coaches of all time, one of my favorite people of all time. I’ve had so many unbelievable growing moments under him as a player, as a person, and I just love the guy.”

This statement from Kelce indicates that he still has immense respect for Bieniemy and is looking forward to working with him again. For Kelce, this connection with Bieniemy could be the motivation he needs to return to the Chiefs and continue his career, especially as he approaches the later years of his playing days.

The Chiefs’ Long-Term Vision: A Window of Opportunity

While Travis Kelce’s future is still up in the air, the Kansas City Chiefs are focused on keeping their championship window open as long as possible. The team is led by Patrick Mahomes, one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, and having Kelce as a top weapon for him is crucial to maintaining their offensive dominance.

The Chiefs are still in their Super Bowl window, and the addition of Eric Bieniemy back into the fold could only enhance the team’s offensive performance moving forward. Kelce would be a significant part of that continued success, given his experience, elite talent, and leadership on and off the field.

What’s Next for Kelce?

As of now, Travis Kelce remains undecided on whether he will return for the 2026 season. The Kansas City Chiefs are hoping that their talks with Kelce will be fruitful and that he will choose to play another year and potentially finish his career with the franchise. His value to the Chiefs is immeasurable, and if he does decide to return, it would likely be with the goal of winning another Super Bowl.

For now, the Chiefs and Kelce will continue discussions, and fans can expect clarity soon on whether the 36-year-old tight end will be back for another championship run. As the Chiefs navigate their salary cap situation and the evolving roster, Kelce’s future remains one of the most closely watched storylines of the offseason.