Travis Kelce’s Potential Farewell Performance at Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City, MO – On December 26, 2025, at 12:33 AM ET, the Kansas City Chiefs faced off against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium, and it may have been the last time fans saw Travis Kelce take the field at home. The four-time All-Pro tight end had a memorable performance, despite the Chiefs’ 20-13 loss, and left a lasting impression on the crowd.
Kelce, who is expected to announce his decision on retirement soon, had five catches for 36 yards, with several crucial receptions in the closing minutes of the game. Although the Chiefs were nearly two-touchdown underdogs, Kelce’s determination and skill almost led to a stunning upset. The 36-year-old tight end has had a storied career, with five Super Bowl appearances, including the past three, and three championship rings.
After being eliminated from playoff contention, Kelce could have easily hung up his cleats, but instead, he chose to play on, showcasing his pride and dedication to the team. In a recent interview, Kelce expressed his emotions, stating, “A whole lot of emotions… You’ve got everybody in the world watching you. You get to go out there with the young guys on prime-time television. Young guys getting an opportunity to taste what this NFL life is like.”
Kelce’s Potential Retirement and Legacy
When asked about his retirement plans, Kelce remained coy, saying, “I’ll let that be a decision I’ll make with my family, friends, the Chiefs organization when the time comes.” As the final player introduced, Kelce emerged from the tunnel to a festive holiday crowd, receiving a thunderous applause, perhaps for the last time, as he took the field. With 645 passes caught at Arrowhead Stadium, including playoffs, Kelce has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history.
His fiancée, pop star Taylor Swift, watched from a suite high above, along with injured quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Gardner Minshew. Kelce’s performance was a testament to his enduring passion for the game and his connection with the fans. As he said, “You feel the generations of happiness and the love that [the fans] have… It’s a beautiful thing, man. It’s something I know I’ll cherish forever, whether it’s coming out of the tunnel or just making a big play for them.”
Kelce has played 97 games at Arrowhead Stadium over his 13-year career, and his 645 receptions are the third most by any player at a single facility since the AFL-NFL merger, behind only Jerry Rice and Larry Fitzgerald. As the Chiefs prepare for their season finale against the Las Vegas Raiders, the question remains whether Kelce will play one more game or ride off into the sunset.
With 10 yards receiving, Kelce can reach 13,000 for his career, and by catching a pass in his 191st game, he can extend his franchise record and the longest active streak in the NFL. While his future remains uncertain, one thing is clear – Travis Kelce has left an indelible mark on the Kansas City Chiefs and the NFL.
What’s Next for Kelce and the Chiefs?
As the Chiefs look to the future, they will undoubtedly be watching Kelce’s decision closely. Teammate Chris Jones expressed his desire for Kelce to return, saying, “We’ve been through so much together… Just one more [season]. Just one more.” While Kelce’s future remains uncertain, his legacy as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history is already cemented. Whether he chooses to retire or return for another season, Travis Kelce will always be remembered as a beloved figure in Kansas City and a true legend of the game.
