As Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce gears up for his 12th season in the NFL, he shows no signs of slowing down.
“I love coming to work every day and doing this, so I’m going to keep at it until the wheels fall off, and hopefully, that’s not any time soon,” Kelce stated, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Teicher.
Kelce, who will turn 35 in October, recently inked a two-year, $34.25 million contract extension with Kansas City in April, making him the NFL’s highest-paid tight end, according to Over The Cap.
Before helping the Chiefs secure their second consecutive Super Bowl title this past season, there was speculation about Kelce’s future, especially as he navigated a knee injury last year.
“I can’t put a time frame on it. I know there are opportunities outside of football for me, but I still feel like a little kid when I come into this building,” Kelce explained.
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This offseason, Kelce also ventured into acting with his first major role in the FX series “Grotesquerie,” set to debut this fall. Despite this new endeavor, Kelce emphasizes that football remains his “main focus.”
To ensure Kelce’s longevity, Kansas City has bolstered its roster by signing veteran Irv Smith Jr. and drafting Jared Wiley, aiming to reduce Kelce’s load. Nevertheless, Kelce anticipates maintaining his usual role in the upcoming season as he aims to help the Chiefs achieve a three-peat.
“Wear and tear, baby. I’m ready for it, man. Put the load on me,” Kelce declared.
Since being drafted by the Chiefs in 2013, the nine-time Pro Bowler has recorded 907 receptions for 11,328 yards and 74 touchdowns.