2025 NFL Column: The Future of Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs with a Betting Angle

Is Travis Kelce’s Career Over?

One of the biggest questions heading into the 2025 NFL offseason revolves around Chiefs’ legendary tight end, Kelce. A future first-ballot Hall of Famer, Kelce has had an unparalleled career, but after watching his performances in the latter half of last season, questions about his future have surfaced.

The Decline in Production

Analyzing his game tape, it’s evident that Kelce has lost a step. His route running isn’t as crisp, his blocking is less effective, and his ability to generate separation has declined. While there were some uncharacteristic drops, the more alarming issue was the lack of effort in key moments, especially during the Super Bowl.

Kelce’s numbers remain solid for a tight end, but they no longer reflect the dominance we’ve grown accustomed to. He finished last season with 97 receptions, yet his yards per reception dropped significantly to 8.5—one of the lowest among tight ends who caught at least 80 passes. Compared to other elite pass catchers, his efficiency took a major hit.

Could Kelce Return for Another Season?

The Chiefs would undoubtedly welcome him back for his leadership and experience, but the reality is that he’ll turn 36 early in the 2024 season. The physical toll of playing tight end for over a decade is substantial, and while Kelce has remained remarkably durable, the signs of wear and tear are evident. The Chiefs must also consider whether his presence is a detriment to their offense, as younger, faster options might better serve Patrick Mahomes.

Betting Angle: Sportsbooks are already offering odds on Kelce’s future. The odds of him retiring before Week 1 of the 2024 season sit at +150, while the odds of him playing another season are at -180. Bettors should weigh whether Kelce’s love for the game outweighs his declining impact.

How the Super Bowl Could Impact Kelce’s Decision

One of the key narratives in Kelce’s potential retirement is how the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run ended. If the team had secured another ring, he might have been more inclined to walk away on a high note. However, given how poorly he performed on the biggest stage, he may feel the urge to return and rewrite his final chapter.

His body language and lack of energy in the Super Bowl were glaring. Even his brother, Jason Kelce formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles was reportedly stunned by his lackluster effort. Kelce didn’t have the fire that once defined his game. He wasn’t getting open, wasn’t blocking effectively, and at times looked like he had already checked out.

Betting Angle: If Kelce decides to play another year, prop bets on his production will be worth monitoring. His over/under on total receiving yards is currently set at 850.5, a significant drop from previous years. If he plays a reduced role, betting the under could be a strong play.

The Post-Football Future: What’s Next for Kelce?

Even if Kelce retires, his future remains bright. He has the personality and charisma to land a major media deal, whether with Amazon, NBC, Fox, or ESPN. His “New Heights" podcast with his brother Jason is already a massive success, reportedly valued at around $100 million.

There’s also the ongoing speculation about his relationship with Taylor Swift. Could he transition into a celebrity lifestyle post-football? That remains to be seen, but the options for Kelce off the field are limitless.

Betting Angle: Some sportsbooks have fun prop bets on Kelce’s next career move. Odds on him joining a major sports network as an analyst in 2025 sit at +200, while the odds of him focusing solely on his podcast are +300.

Final Verdict

Kelce’s legacy is cemented, but his best days appear to be behind him. The Chiefs might still want him around, but his declining performance raises legitimate concerns about his future impact on the field. Bettors should keep an eye on retirement odds, player props, and even his next career move as this story continues to unfold.

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.