Kelce turns 37 in October, and after seven straight 1,000-yard seasons, he’s come close to that mark in each of the last three years. His role is still important in Kansas City’s offense, but as he’s gotten older, his physical skills and abilities have gradually diminished. Most recently, even his normally steady hands let him down in a few key moments, contributing to the more disappointing 2025 season.
It would be understandable if Kelce called it a career. He’s expanded his endeavors beyond the football field and into entertainment, getting engaged to fiancee Taylor Swift and appearing to take a moment to soak up the aura of Arrowhead Stadium during the Chiefs’ final home game of the 2025 season, as if he knew it might be the last time he’d run out of the home stretch. It’s also worth noting that his older brother, Jason, retired after his 36-year stint.
However, the Chiefs are apparently open to welcoming him back for one more go if he wants to. And after Kansas City ended 2025 with an unusual disappointment, it would make sense if Kelce wanted to run it again one last time.
The same is not so easy to envision for a former boss who was recently released. Miami released receiver Tyreek Hill on Monday, opening the door to talk of a potential reunion in Kansas City, home to a team that could use an addition at the position.
Hill’s potential, however, is far from certain. He turns 32 on March 1 and is still recovering from a horrific knee injury he suffered in late September that ended his season prematurely.
Understandably, Reid didn’t have much to say on the subject.
“Look, we go through everything and everyone. That’s what (general manager) Brett (Veach) does,” Reid said. “I don’t even know if Tyreek is healthy right now to do anything. So I’m sure he’s working hard on that part of it and trying to get that part of it right. Look, we talk about everything. There’s nothing going on over there, but we know you know — that he’s out there swinging away, trying to get back to where he can play, period.”
With an alleged assault lawsuit recently filed against Chiefs receiver Rashee Rice, Kansas City could be in the market for a replacement, even if only on a short-term deal. On Friday, Reid noted that Rice’s legal status is in the hands of law enforcement and added that Rice’s current status will not affect how the Chiefs approach the offseason.
Nevertheless, Hill could fill such a need if he can prove he is healthy enough to play.
For now, though, Reid and the Chiefs aren’t offering much information. After all, they know a vague approach is best at this point in the offseason.