The Kansas City Chiefs fell to the Los Angeles Chargers Sunday, ending their streak of three consecutive AFC championships and removing them from playoff contention. The loss also came at a time when Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce, 36, is facing questions about his future with the team. Former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce weighed in on the situation during an ESPN Monday Night Football interview on Dec. 15.
Jason Kelce’s Take on a Possible Retirement
Jason said, “I’m curious, too,” and added, “In my opinion, to nail that decision, you’ve got to step away from the game for a little bit.” He emphasized that the decision should not be rushed and that taking a short break could provide clarity.
The Chiefs, who have not played in a Super Bowl for the fourth consecutive year, will still finish their regular‑season schedule. Jason urged the team to make the most of the remaining games, saying, “Play these last three games, enjoy them with your teammates, enjoy that with your coaches.” He added that the team will be different next season regardless of Kelce’s choice, and that the players should savor the current moments.
Jason also reflected on the emotional rollercoaster the team has experienced. He said, “There’s so many emotions with this game right after a season, especially with the way this one’s been,” and continued, “It’s been so up and down … They’ve been close and right now, it’s too fresh. You got to step away from it, you got to think about it. Then, it’ll come to you.”
Chiefs’ Loss and Its Aftermath
The Chiefs’ defeat was a hard‑fought contest that ended with a 35‑28 scoreline. The loss was compounded by the fact that the team’s quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, suffered a torn ACL during the game after being tackled by Chargers defensive end Da’Shawn Hand. The Chiefs confirmed that Mahomes would undergo surgery the following day.
Patrick Mahomes’ Injury
Mahomes’ injury was a significant blow to the Chiefs’ playoff hopes. The two‑time MVP’s ACL tear came at a moment when the team was still fighting to stay in contention. The injury was announced shortly after the game, and the team’s medical staff confirmed that surgery would be performed the next day.
Jason Kelce’s Own Career Transition
Jason Kelce’s advice on retirement is rooted in his own experience. The 38‑year‑old announced his retirement from the NFL after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles in March 2024. He cited the emotional nature of that decision and the support he received from his family.
As a father to daughters Wyatt, 6, Elliotte, 4, Bennett, 2, and Finnley, 8 months, and husband to wife Kylie Kelce, Jason has faced the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life. He has spoken about how the bond with his brother has shaped his own values and resilience.
The Kelce Family Bond
During a press conference, Jason described the Kelce family as small and close. He said, “We have a small family,” and added, “No cousins, one aunt, one uncle. It was really my brother and I our whole lives. We did almost everything together — competed, fought, laughed, cried and learned from each other.”
Jason also reflected on the impact of his brother’s career on his own. He said, “There is no chance I’d be here without the bond Travis and I share,” and continued, “It made me stronger, tougher, smarter and taught me the values of cooperation, loyalty, patience and understanding. It’s only too poetic I found my career being fulfilled in the City of Brotherly Love. I knew that relationship all too well.”
Travis Kelce, who recently got engaged to Taylor Swift, was moved to tears during Jason’s speech. The emotional moment highlighted the deep connection between the brothers and the weight of their shared journey.
Key Takeaways
- Jason Kelce advises a brief break to clarify retirement decisions.
- Chiefs’ loss and Mahomes’ ACL injury end the team’s playoff hopes.
- The Kelce brothers’ bond has shaped both their personal and professional lives.
The conversation between the brothers underscores how family ties can influence career choices, especially in the high‑stakes world of the NFL. As the Chiefs finish their final games, the question of Travis Kelce’s future remains open, but Jason’s words suggest that time, reflection, and a supportive network are essential to making the right decision.
