As the Kansas City Chiefs reflect on their 40-22 Super Bowl 59 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles, all eyes are now on star tight end Travis Kelce and what lies ahead for his football career. Kelce, who has cemented his legacy in Chiefs history with three Super Bowl rings and the franchise’s all-time touchdown record, has yet to make an official decision about his future. However, sources close to the situation suggest that Kelce’s initial plan was to walk away from the game on a high note—provided the Chiefs secured a historic third consecutive Super Bowl victory.

A source revealed to US Weekly that had the Chiefs triumphed in Super Bowl 59, Kelce was ready to call it a career. Instead, following the heartbreaking loss, the future Hall of Famer is now rethinking his next steps and is considering returning for another season.

This revelation has left fans on edge, wondering whether Kelce will take the field again in 2024. As of now, he remains under contract with the Chiefs through the 2025 season. Kelce had previously expressed intentions to play for at least three more years, even referencing his future in a Super Bowl media session. His comments back then only added to the uncertainty surrounding his decision, implying that regardless of the outcome in New Orleans, he was open to extending his career.

The Chiefs are not leaving this matter up in the air for long, though. According to reports, the organization has set a firm deadline for Kelce to make up his mind by March 14th, just one day before he’s due to receive an $11.5 million roster bonus on March 15th. If he decides to retire before then, the Chiefs would have the opportunity to reallocate those funds strategically to other areas of the team.

Amid all the speculation, Kelce has opted to step away from the spotlight, enjoying some downtime with his girlfriend, Taylor Swift. After an intense NFL season, Kelce is now taking a break to relax, while Swift continues her IRS Tour. The couple has been laying low in the aftermath of the Super Bowl, but the looming deadline for Kelce to make his decision adds another layer of pressure. Fans, teammates, and the Chiefs organization are all anxiously awaiting clarity on what the future holds for one of the NFL’s greatest tight ends.

As it stands, the football world is holding its breath, hoping for a decision on whether Travis Kelce will return to the field for one more season, or if he will choose to retire and enjoy life after football—perhaps alongside the music icon who has been supporting him through this transitional time.