Travis Kelce, nearing 35, ‘wouldn’t accept’ lesser role from Chiefs

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — As Travis Kelce approaches his 35th birthday this October, questions about how age might impact the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense are swirling. However, the veteran tight end appears unphased by any potential changes that could be made due to his advancing years.

“I probably wouldn’t listen to them if they did,” Kelce remarked, hinting at his unwavering determination and perhaps injecting a bit of humor into the conversation.

Regardless of any adjustments, Kelce insists he’s physically as prepared for this upcoming season as he has ever been. He believes that understanding one’s own body improves with time and experience.

“You get more comfortable with your body,” Kelce explained. “You learn from the mistakes you made in years past. It’s all about getting better and becoming more aware of where your body is at.”

With palpable enthusiasm, Kelce expressed his eagerness for the new season, stating, “I’m excited. I get to play another year of football with a fresh slate. Get to kind of prove to ourselves and Chiefs Kingdom that we’re one of the top dogs and can play at a high level.”

Kelce has been with the Chiefs since being drafted in the third round back in 2013. Even as various career paths—like acting opportunities and a lucrative podcast contract with Amazon’s Wondery estimated to be worth over $100 million—beckon, his passion for football remains undiminished.

“I just love coming in here. I love football and how it takes me away from life,” he stated. “It gives me something I can feel genuinely happy about. I enjoy coming into the building, working on my craft, getting to understand a new game plan and perfecting that for the people around me. It gives me a purpose to live my life and I have so much excitement doing it.”

Kelce expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue his career in the NFL. “I’m forever fortunate to be able to play as many games as I’ve played in this league. That’s why I really enjoy going out there every single day, even if it’s just practice, to work on my craft,” he said. “I know not everybody gets that same fortune in their career, and I’m ready to rock Week 1 and I’m thankful for it.”