Travis Kelce has never been just another tight end — and his life after football is shaping up to be just as headline-worthy as his Hall of Fame career.
As the Kansas City Chiefs legend weighs whether to return for another season, industry insiders believe Kelce is already being quietly lined up for one of the most coveted seats in sports media: the NFL broadcast booth.
On The Athletic’s Marchand Sports Media podcast, respected media reporter Andrew Marchand revealed that Kelce would instantly become one of television’s most in-demand former players if he retires.
“I think Travis Kelce is one who, if he retires, definitely could do TV,” Marchand said. “And I think he wants to do games. That’s one to watch.”
In other words — Kelce isn’t being courted for a studio desk. Networks see him calling the biggest games in football.
It’s easy to understand why. Over the past few years, Kelce has quietly built a second career in front of the camera. He co-hosts the wildly popular New Heights podcast with brother Jason, has conquered reality TV and game shows, earned rave reviews as host of Saturday Night Live, and even made the leap into Hollywood with a role in Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore 2.
Unlike many former players who need time to adjust to the spotlight, Kelce already owns it.

Yet, despite the mounting buzz around his post-NFL future, the 11-time Pro Bowler isn’t rushing anything. His focus remains on his health, the Chiefs’ direction, and the uncertain status of quarterback Patrick Mahomes as he rehabs. A return to Kansas City is still very much on the table.
But whenever Kelce finally hangs up his cleats, it may not feel like goodbye.
It might just sound like the opening line of his next broadcast. ️