For the first time in four years, the Kansas City Chiefs are not preparing for the Super Bowl in early February, leaving quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce on separate journeys during the offseason. While Mahomes is focusing on an aggressive rehabilitation process for his torn ACL, Kelce, fresh off another outstanding NFL season, is left to contemplate the looming question of retirement following 13 incredibly successful years in the league.

Though both stars are dealing with their own unique circumstances, there’s one thing they share—an undeniable connection. As Kelce takes time away from the football field, his prowess on the golf course has been making headlines, and Mahomes is right there to cheer him on.

Mahomes Cheers Kelce’s Golf Skills

While Mahomes has had to put his own golf game on hold due to his injury, Kelce is spending time on the links, showing off his multi-sport talents. On Wednesday, February 4, Kelce competed in the prestigious WM Phoenix Open, where he made waves with his impressive tee shot on the 16th hole. The Golf Channel posted a video of Kelce’s shot, calling it an “absolute dart” as the 3x Super Bowl champion sank it within a few feet of the hole, winning the coveted gold WM chain.

“TRAVIS KELCE WITH AN ABSOLUTE DART ON THE 16TH,” the Golf Channel captioned the video, adding excitement to the moment.

As Kelce dazzled on the golf course, Mahomes was presumably watching from home, and his reaction was as emphatic as ever. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Mahomes shared a brief but spirited message in support of his longtime teammate.

“Let’s go!!!!! @tkelce,” Mahomes posted, giving Kelce his full endorsement and celebrating his athletic versatility.

The bond between Mahomes and Kelce has been integral to the Chiefs’ success over the past decade, and Mahomes’ message speaks to the deep friendship and mutual respect they share, not only on the football field but off it as well.

Kelce’s Retirement Decision Looms

While Mahomes is focused on his recovery, Kelce has no such physical hurdles, but his decision to retire or continue playing has become one of the most anticipated storylines surrounding the Chiefs’ offseason. The 33-year-old tight end has not provided a timeline for his retirement decision, but the need for clarity will grow as the new league year approaches in mid-March. Teams will soon be able to make trades and sign free agents, and the Chiefs will likely be looking to make key decisions regarding the direction of the roster before the draft in late April.

Despite the Chiefs’ recent struggles—finishing 6-11 and missing the playoffs in 2025 for the first time in over a decade—Kelce’s future remains a key factor in the team’s planning. Over the course of his illustrious career, Kelce has helped the Chiefs secure seven AFC Championship Game appearances, five trips to the Super Bowl, and three rings. As the Chiefs enter a period of financial restructuring, they will need to assess whether Kelce’s return would provide the stability necessary to make another championship push.

The Chiefs’ Salary Cap and Draft Strategy

The Chiefs face the largest salary cap deficit in the NFL, sitting $54.7 million in the red just days before the Super Bowl. This financial challenge, combined with the realities of their aging core, means that Kansas City must make calculated decisions about how to best position themselves for another Super Bowl run.

Fortunately, the Chiefs have the No. 9 overall pick in the 2026 draft, as well as a second-round pick at No. 40. This gives them an opportunity to add two high-caliber players who could make an immediate impact. The Chiefs’ front office will have to balance long-term salary cap issues with the immediate need to surround Kelce, Mahomes, and other key players with the talent necessary to contend once again.

Kelce’s Off-Field Ventures: An Added Influence

It’s also worth considering the off-field factors influencing Kelce’s decision. With his highly successful “New Heights” podcast alongside his brother Jason Kelce, Travis Kelce has made a name for himself outside of football. The podcast has grown significantly in popularity, making Kelce a recognizable name beyond the gridiron. Additionally, his blossoming relationship with global music star Taylor Swift has kept him in the media spotlight, further raising questions about whether he’s ready to step away from football for a more lucrative and comfortable lifestyle.

Kelce has the potential to earn a substantial income outside of football, and this could play a role in his decision. If he feels that he has accomplished everything he set out to do on the field, Kelce could opt to retire and focus on his media ventures and personal life. However, if the allure of one more championship run with Mahomes is too strong, he may choose to return for at least one more season.

A Legacy on the Line

Regardless of when he decides to retire, Kelce’s legacy as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history is already cemented. He has played a crucial role in the Chiefs’ dynastic run over the last decade, and his decision will carry major weight, not just in Kansas City but across the league.

Mahomes and Kelce’s chemistry on the field has been one of the most effective quarterback-tight end duos in NFL history, and the thought of the two of them parting ways at this stage of their careers adds an emotional layer to the offseason drama. Whether Kelce decides to retire or return, his impact on the Chiefs will be felt for years to come.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Kelce and the Chiefs

As the Super Bowl approaches and the offseason nears, the Chiefs’ future, and Kelce’s place in it, will become clearer. Mahomes’ rehab and Kelce’s retirement decision will both play major roles in shaping the team’s prospects for 2026 and beyond. But regardless of what happens, one thing is certain: the bond between Mahomes and Kelce will continue to be a defining feature of the Chiefs’ legacy.

Whether it’s in the trenches of another Super Bowl run or in a new chapter of life beyond football, the duo’s impact on the game will be felt for years to come. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Kelce’s next decision is one more year of football—or a step toward a new career entirely.