Andy Reid positive over Travis Kelce returning to Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has offered a positive update on the future of Travis Kelce, suggesting the tight end is leaning towards returning for a 14th NFL season.
Reid appeared in good spirits regarding the 36-year-old’s status during a press conference ahead of the NFL Scouting Combine.
The veteran coach indicated that ongoing discussions point toward Kelce delaying retirement for at least one more campaign.
“There is communication, that is the main thing,” said Reid.
“As long as there’s communication, I’m good. That means people want to move forward and I think that’s where Travis is.”
Decision expected before free agency
Kelce had previously stated he would determine his playing future by early March, prior to the start of the NFL free agency period.
Despite the Chiefs’ season ending six weeks ago, the growing sentiment within the organisation is that the star pass-catcher will remain in Missouri.
“I’m not trying to put words in his mouth at all, and I try to give him some space here,” Reid added.
“He has been doing this a long time, and he can sort all that out as he goes forward, but we’re proceeding with that.”
Even in his 13th season, the tight end remained the focal point of the Kansas City offence, leading the team with 76 receptions and 851 yards.
Reunion with Bieniemy
A potential return would see Kelce reunited with offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, who re-joined the coaching staff last month.
The four-time All-Pro has publicly praised the appointment, acknowledging his best statistical years came under Bieniemy’s previous tenure between 2018 and 2022.
“I can’t wait to see him back in the building,” Kelce said on his podcast.
“He is one of my favourite coaches of all time and I’ve had so many unbelievable growing moments under him as a player.”
Mahomes making progress
While Kelce weighs his options, quarterback Patrick Mahomes is continuing his rehabilitation from significant knee surgery.
The two-time NFL MVP has spent the last two months recovering from procedures to repair a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee.
Reid confirmed that the quarterback is working diligently with athletic trainer Julie Frymyer.
“He spends a ton of time here, seven hours a day,” Reid said.
“He is in there cranking away and making progress every day.”