Andy Reid Addresses Rumors That Travis Kelce Could Be Playing His Final Home Game on Christmas

Travis Kelce may be considering retirement after 13 seasons in the NFL — and the upcoming Christmas matchup could be the last time he plays in front of a home crowd.

During a press conference on Dec. 23, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid was asked about growing speculation that the star tight end will step away after this season. With the Chiefs already eliminated from playoff contention and only two games left on the schedule, their Christmas Day clash with the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium will be the team’s final home game of the year.

When asked what it would mean if this turned out to be Kelce’s last home appearance, Reid said he hasn’t discussed it directly with him:
“I don’t know if it is or not. But Travis’ numbers, his personality, the type of man he is — they speak for themselves. He’s a phenomenal person who has done so much for the community. He is everything you want in a player representing your organization.”

Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy also reflected on the possibility of Kelce saying goodbye to Arrowhead:
“What Travis has done for this organization, his teammates and this city… I really hope it isn’t true. He’s still out here working every single day — that alone shows why he’s special.”

Chiefs defensive star Chris Jones, one of Kelce’s closest friends on the team, called the situation bittersweet:
“Man, it’s sad. Being out there on the field with my brother has meant everything. I hope this isn’t his last ride, but if it is, I tip my hat to him — what a career.”

Kelce, 36, has not directly addressed the retirement rumors despite being asked several times. At a Dec. 19 media session, he declined to give an update:
“I’d rather keep the focus on this team right now. Any conversations about my future will stay between me and the organization.”

The three-time Super Bowl champion — who is also planning his wedding with fiancée Taylor Swift — admitted he’s in “a unique time” in his life, especially after missing the playoffs in the final year of his current contract:
“Unfortunately, I’ve only got a few games left. And I know exactly when this season ends.”

The Chiefs missed the postseason for the first time in a decade after a 16–13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Dec. 14 mathematically eliminated them. The night grew even tougher when quarterback Patrick Mahomes tore his ACL in the fourth quarter, ending his season. He underwent successful surgery the next day.

After the Christmas Day game, Kansas City will face the Las Vegas Raiders on Jan. 4 in Las Vegas. If Kelce decides to retire after the season, that matchup would mark the final game of his NFL career.