Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce reflected on the possibility of no longer playing alongside his best friend and quarterback Patrick Mahomes, following Mahomes’ recent season-ending knee injury. Speaking to the media on December 19, 36-year-old Kelce called the idea “crazy” while emphasizing his commitment to the team for the remainder of the season.
Kelce, who has spent his entire 13-season career with the Chiefs since being drafted in 2013, has developed a legendary on-field partnership with Mahomes, who joined the team in 2017. Together, the duo has won three Super Bowls, becoming one of the most celebrated quarterback-tight end combinations in NFL history.
Mahomes’ Injury and Kelce’s Focus
Mahomes suffered torn ligaments in his left knee during the final drive of the Chiefs’ playoff-eliminating loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on December 14. This injury marked the first time in a decade that the Chiefs failed to qualify for the playoffs.
Kelce acknowledged the emotional toll of losing his teammate but stressed that his priority remains on the team’s remaining games. “I’d rather keep the focus of the media and everything on this team, right now,” Kelce told reporters. He added that while this is a unique moment in his life, his main goal is to win the final three games of the season.
Career Speculation and Personal Life
Rumors have circulated that this season might be Kelce’s final year in the NFL, adding another layer of significance to his remaining games. Outside the field, Kelce is engaged to Taylor Swift, which he described as part of this unique period in his life.
Beyond football, Kelce and Mahomes recently ventured into business together, opening 1587 Prime Steakhouse in Kansas City in September 2025. The two families, including Mahomes’ wife Brittany and Swift, have become close friends, often spotted together at Chiefs games supporting both athletes.
A Legendary Friendship
Kelce and Mahomes’ close bond extends off the field as well. Mahomes previously recounted a story from their rookie seasons that foreshadowed their lasting friendship: as a new quarterback struggling to fit in, Mahomes was late to a team event and found Kelce was also late. The shared experience sparked their “bromance,” which has become a defining feature of the Chiefs’ locker room culture.
Their relationship has been marked by humor, trust, and mutual respect, creating a partnership that has propelled the Chiefs to multiple championships and made them fan favorites.
Looking Ahead
While uncertainty surrounds Kelce’s future and Mahomes’ recovery, the tight end remains focused on the team and finishing the 2025 season strong. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see whether this might mark the final chapter of one of the NFL’s most iconic duos or if both will continue to add to their legacy together.
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