🚨 NFL RUMOR: Travis Kelce’s Potential Retirement and Broadcasting Career in Play for 2026 👇

The Kansas City Chiefs’ legendary tight end, Travis Kelce, faces an uncertain future after a rough 2025 season for the Chiefs. After battling injuries and witnessing a disappointing year for the team, Kelce could choose to retire, or he might opt to return in hopes that a healthier Patrick Mahomes and a rejuvenated Chiefs team can bounce back in 2026.
However, there are other possibilities beyond these two main options, including a potential career change that could see Kelce venture into broadcasting.
Kelce’s Next Move: Retirement or Another Season?
The Chiefs’ lackluster 2025 season has left Kelce with a big decision to make. If he chooses to retire, he could go out on his own terms after a historic career, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. On the other hand, a return for 2026 would give him the opportunity to play alongside Mahomes again and potentially pursue another Super Bowl title.
While Kelce’s return to the Chiefs seems like the most probable option, there are other possibilities. He could theoretically sign with a different team, though that idea seems highly unlikely given his longstanding relationship with Kansas City and the success he’s had with the franchise.
Broadcasting: A Future for Kelce?
One option that could become more realistic if Kelce decides to retire is a career in broadcasting. According to Andrew Marchand of The Athletic, Kelce is a prime candidate for a job in TV, particularly in game broadcasting. “I think Travis Kelce is one who, if he retires, definitely could do TV,” Marchand stated. “I think he wants to do games, so that’s one to watch.”

Kelce’s star power would make him a highly marketable figure in broadcasting, and the job would come with a hefty payday. Marchand believes Kelce could command a salary between $10 million to $20 million per year for a top broadcasting role. With his charismatic personality, deep knowledge of the game, and media presence—especially with his high-profile relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift—Kelce could attract significant attention on any broadcast he joins.
Kelce’s Star Power and Potential Interest from Networks
Kelce’s name alone would bring added viewership and intrigue to any broadcast, which is a valuable asset in today’s highly competitive media landscape. With the NFL’s broadcasting rights spread across multiple networks, there are plenty of opportunities for Kelce to land a top-tier role, whether as an analyst or a game commentator. Marchand suggests that Kelce is likely already receiving interest from TV networks, which would certainly influence his decision on whether to retire or keep playing.
Even if Kelce does return to the field for the 2026 season, the door to broadcasting won’t be closed. It would simply be pushed further down the line, giving Kelce the flexibility to pivot to a media career once his playing days are over.
The Bottom Line: What’s Next for Kelce?
As Kelce weighs his options, one thing is clear: his next move will be carefully considered, whether it’s continuing his Hall of Fame-worthy career with the Chiefs or transitioning to a new career in broadcasting. His decision could depend on how the Chiefs plan for 2026 and how much he still has left to give on the field. Regardless of his decision, Kelce is sure to have a major impact, whether on the gridiron or in front of the camera.
Fans will be watching closely as the future of one of the NFL’s most iconic players unfolds. Will Kelce retire and make the leap into broadcasting, or will he come back for another season with the Chiefs? Only time will tell, but Kelce’s legacy in the NFL is already cemented, and his next chapter is bound to be just as exciting.