Travis Kelce Was Battling ‘Big Illness’ Ahead Of Embarrassing Super Bowl Loss

Jacob BarkerFebruary 28, 2025, 9:38 pmNews >

According to Kansas City Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach, Travis Kelce was battling a “big illness” before his Super Bowl defeat.

Veach, 47, discussed the issues facing the tight end in the run-up to the game on an episode of the NFL Podcast, The Insides, but quipped that Kelce’s illness didn’t affect the score – the Eagles won 40-22.

“We didn’t have the end to our season that we hoped for,” he commented, “You have to learn more from your losses than your wins.” Veach admitted that the Chiefs had “picked a bad day to have a bad day,” but used the moment to let the team use the experience as motivation become better.

Veach then addressed the swirling rumors that Kelce, 35, is set to retire. When asked if he would return for the 2025 season, Veach responded positively, “I think so. We anticipate Travis being back, and we’re excited to have Travis back.” He also noted that Kelce shares a unique relationship with quarterback Patrick Mahomes, 29, revealing that he finds “a way to stay in shape and produce at a level that only he can.”

“He makes us better when he’s in our locker room and on our field,” Veach said. “We’re excited to get him back.” Touching upon that, Kelce had “accomplished everything that there is in a game” and his ability to improve those around him.

Kelce spoke about his future in the NFL podcast New Heights alongside his brother Jason Kelce, “I know everybody wants to know whether or not I’m playing next year,” he said. “Right now, I’m just kicking everything down the road. I’m not making any crazy decisions.”

Jason, 37, said he believes Travis has already made up his mind during an episode of The Steam Room, “I think Travis, I think he probably, in his heart, already knows what he wants to do. That’s the reality of it.”