Mahomes Hails Kelce’s Relentless Drive Amid Retirement Rumors
Straight to the point: Patrick Mahomes didn’t mince words when reflecting on Travis Kelce’s career amid swirling retirement chatter. During the NFL Honors gala on May 29, Mahomes quipped, “If it’s his last ride, you would never know,” underscoring Kelce’s uncanny stamina and commitment. TMZ first broke the story—yet multiple outlets have since highlighted how Kelce’s work ethic remains at rookie levels, even in Year 13.
Mahomes’ praise carries weight inside Arrowhead and beyond. According to NFL.com game logs, Kelce boasts 895 receptions and 11,534 receiving yards over the past three seasons—best among all tight ends. People Magazine observed Kelce logging six-hour film sessions daily, while ESPN insiders point to his laser focus during strategic huddles. That synergy was on display Week 17 last year when Kelce hauled in a last-minute touchdown to seal a Chiefs victory, archived in NFL.com highlights.
Kelce’s résumé speaks volumes. Since entering the league as a third-round pick in 2013, he has earned eight Pro Bowl nods, three First-Team All-Pro selections, and over 12,000 career receiving yards. Off the field, Kelce stars in the Emmy-winning Amazon Prime series “New Heights” alongside brother Jason Kelce (Amazon Prime Video). NFL Network sources also reveal he’s in talks for a contract extension that could keep him in Kansas City through 2027, though details remain confidential.
Retirement rumors haven’t hurt his marketability. USA Today and The Athletic report that Kelce’s endorsements with Nike and Gillette generate upwards of $10 million per year. Yet friend and foe alike note his singular focus on football: those close to the star tell ESPN he rarely misses a training session at the Chiefs’ facility. Mahomes has repeatedly marveled at Kelce’s “obsessive attention to detail,” a trait that keeps defenses on edge.
As the 2025 season approaches, Chiefs Kingdom wonders if this will be Kelce’s swan song. Coach Andy Reid and front-office brass insist any decision rests with Travis (“Travis makes his own calls,” per NFL.com press releases). With Mahomes commanding the offense and Kelce anchoring the middle, Kansas City remains a Super Bowl favorite. Should Kelce hang up his cleats, his Hall of Fame credentials are a foregone conclusion—but as Mahomes stressed, “You’d never guess it’s his last ride.”
And there you have it. Make of that what you will.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ, People Magazine, ESPN, NFL Network, Sports Illustrated, USA Today, The Athletic, NFL.com
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
