Despite an apparent career decline at age 37, future Hall of Famer and Kansas City Chiefs legend Travis Kelce will return for his 14th NFL season in 2026. The Athletic first broke the news on Sunday night. However, they also report that the free agent tight end is not guaranteed to return to the only franchise he has ever played for.
"It is not certain whether the team he plays for will be the head of the team. Kelce's representatives are expected to speak to multiple teams," the outlet reports.
With the 11-time Pro Bowler set to return next season, let's take a look at seven teams he could land with in NFL free agency this month.
houston texans
The Houston Texans have a Super Bowl-caliber defense. However, their offense has held them back the past few seasons. They have a good quarterback in CJ Stroud, but they need more weapons. With $33 million in available cap space this offseason, according to Over the Cap, Kelce is a player who can make an impact while still staying in his price range. Don't be surprised if Houston is a contender for a great finish to the month.
Seattle Seahawks
If Kelce is going to play in 2026, you can bet his goal will be to join a team with a legitimate shot at winning a championship next season. Well, the Seattle Seahawks are sure to be in contention again after winning their latest Super Bowl title last month.
Additionally, they have a good chunk of cap space this offseason and a clear need for more meaningful pass-game weapons to help take the load off star receiver Jackson Smith-Njigba.
los angeles chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers have won 11 games and will have more than $90 million in cap space either way this offseason. In 2025, LA did not have a single receiver over 1,000 receiving yards. Kelce is unlikely to do it for them, but he will certainly draw attention and help a player like Ladd McConkey have an even better year in 2026.
The idea of Kelce playing for the Bolts and taking passes from Justin Herbert would be a stab in the back for Chiefs fans, but we've seen franchise veterans play for the enemy before. The best example is Green Bay Packers icon Brett Favre who suited up for the hated Minnesota Vikings his last two seasons.
kansas city chiefs
Speaking of the Chiefs, it's still very possible that Travis Kelce returns to Kansas City next season. He has freed up a good amount of cap space over the past few weeks and he would certainly command a discounted rate again to return for his final season.
If this is a transition season for the Chiefs as Patrick Mahomes returns from a torn ACL, Kelce being on a retirement tour could certainly lead to another disappointing year for KC.
New York Giants
Kelce will aim to be a contender in 2026. However, playing in New York and playing for a franchise like the New York Giants is always a draw for star players. Big Blue's poor performance over the last three seasons should cause the future Hall of Famer to lose interest. However, there is a belief that the Giants could be much better in 2026 with new head coach John Harbaugh.
Young QB Jackson Darts needs more reliable weapons, and Kelce will definitely help. Offering his NFL swan song on New York's big stage might have some appeal for the tight end if he doesn't like the other offers he receives.
denver broncos
The Chargers may not be the only major foe that could come into play for Travis Kelce this offseason. If Bo Knicks had suited up in the AFC Championship Game, many NFL analysts believe the Denver Broncos would have defeated the New England Patriots. They therefore meet the criteria of being a serious title contender for next season.
Additionally, Evan Engram was a huge disappointment for Denver last season. If they sign Kelce, they could consider moving him, or go with an interesting and dangerous two-TE set in 2026.
Washington Commanders
One team hoping for a deep playoff run and salary cap space this offseason is the Washington Commanders. Additionally, tight end is expected to be a position they look to upgrade in the coming weeks.
After reaching the NFC Championship two seasons ago, fans saw how good Washington and star QB Jaden Daniels could be. Kelce could be one of the key offseason signings that gets the Commanders back into playoff contention this offseason.
retirement
It's very possible that Kelce hits free agency and doesn't love the options or offers he receives. He has been retired for the past few seasons, and does not need to keep playing as his acting career is growing rapidly and his new heights Podcasts are extremely popular. It wouldn't be shocking if Kelce takes a look at the free agent market and decides retirement is a better option.
