Kansas City Chiefs TE Travis Kelce opened up about how watching Patrick Mahomes’ ACL recovery process made him want to play another season.
The 36-year-old Kelce is returning for his 14th season with the Chiefs in 2026 despite heavy retirement rumors after missing the playoffs and Patrick Mahomes’ ACL tear.
While the Chiefs’ playoff picture was dark when Mahomes went down in Week 15, watching his battle to return in time for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season played a huge role in Kelce’s decision not to retire.
Travis Kelce admits Patrick Mahomes’ return influenced decision not to retire
On the latest episode of the New Heights podcast, Travis told his brother Jason Kelce about how watching Mahomes’ hard work to return in time for the season made him continue his career.
“I could see the hard work starting just weeks after the surgery. I could see the determination; I could see the frustration in his mind that it got to this point this year. That’s a huge reason why I’m still playing the game. I want to be there for that guy.”
Kelce is still playing as a high-level TE, putting up 76 receptions for 851 yards, 5 TDS, and 108 targets last season while being named to the Pro Bowl.
If Mahomes can rediscover his form from before last season and Kelce doesn’t face a drop-off in production with age, the Chiefs could be dangerous.
Additions like Kenneth Walker III, bringing back OC Eric Bieniemy, and adjustments across the roster’s defensive line have given them cause for optimism heading into the new season.
Patrick Mahomes’ status for Week 1 of the Chiefs season
The Chiefs open their season against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium on September 14.
Mahomes has been targeting a return to the field by Week 1 since the start of camp, and is reportedly on track for that.
He didn’t play a single snap of preseason football but was mostly a full participant during training camp, trying to work off the rust from nine months of rehabbing his torn ACL.
Head coach Andy Reid has refused to confirm if Mahomes will be the team’s starting QB for Week 1, but even if he isn’t, he should be on the field before the end of the month.
Multiple notable players around the league are hoping to return from major injuries in Week 1, including George Kittle, but Mahomes’ availability will make the biggest difference out of any of the potential returns in store for the season opener.
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