Travis Kelce returns for a 14th NFL season at age 37 after signing a one-year deal with the Chiefs following 2025’s 6-11 campaign and his own retirement deliberations. He posted 76 receptions for 851 yards and five touchdowns last year—solid but down from prior peaks—and has voiced intent to elevate his play while maintaining the longest active catch streak in franchise history. Patrick Mahomes’ ongoing knee recovery raises questions about early-season targets and chemistry, with backups potentially starting Week 1. Recent voluntary OTA absences and a minor preseason illness add minor uncertainty, though Kelce remains the clear TE1 in a Chiefs offense seeking to rebound.