RM Travis Kelce plans to play in Chiefs’ final three games despite Patrick Mahomes injury, retirement questions

Travis Kelce is determined to play in the Kansas City Chiefs’ final three games of the 2025 season, despite the team’s playoff hopes being dashed and quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ recent knee injury. The Chiefs, now with a 6-8 record, are officially out of the AFC playoff race, and Mahomes is recovering from a torn ACL and LCL, leaving the team with many questions about their future, including whether Kelce will retire.

Kelce, who has avoided answering retirement questions directly, admitted that he will address his future in the offseason. He said, “I think I’d rather just keep the focus on this team, right now,” emphasizing that any discussions about his career will happen after the season. “It’s a unique time in my life. I’ve got three games left. Unfortunately, I’ve got three games left, and I know when the season ends. Just trying to make sure everybody here knows that I’m focused on trying to win these last three games.”

While the team’s playoff prospects are over, Kelce remains committed to finishing the season strong. He plans to play through the final three games, despite the Chiefs’ lack of postseason contention and Mahomes’ injury. “It’s just integrity, man,” Kelce said. “I signed up to be a Chief, and I love doing what I do. I know I’ve been dreaming of being in these moments since I was a kid. That alone gives you more motivation than anything. That’s just how I approach work, whether we’re in the race or not. I’ll make sure the guys know I’m giving everything I’ve got.”

Kelce will continue to support backup quarterback Gardner Minshew as he steps in for Mahomes. While the Chiefs are playing out a lost season, Kelce still has personal milestones to chase. He is just 203 yards away from another 1,000-yard season, which would make him the oldest tight end in NFL history to reach that mark.

The Chiefs’ remaining games are against the Titans, Broncos, and Raiders, with the Denver game scheduled for Christmas Day. That game could be Kelce’s last at Arrowhead Stadium, and fans will likely give him a special send-off. After the game, all eyes will be on Kelce to see if his emotions reveal any clues about his decision to continue his career next season.