Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs were one of the more disappointing teams during the 2025 NFL season. After beginning the year with a 6-5 record, the Chiefs dropped their final six games, ending at 6-11 and missing out on the playoffs. Still, Kelce played well enough to earn an 11th Pro Bowl nod, recording 76 catches for 851 yards and five touchdowns.
Following the 2025 season, Kelce took some time to decide whether he would retire after 13 NFL seasons or return for a 14th. Ultimately, the tight end chose to return to Kansas City in hopes of another shot at a Super Bowl, signing a one-year, $12 million deal with the Chiefs that could increase to $15 million with incentives.
Advertisement
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) warms up prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium.Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Kelce began his Chiefs career in 2013 after being selected with the No. 63 pick in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Since then, the former Cincinnati Bearcats star has become one of the best tight ends in NFL history, helping Kansas City win three Super Bowls in five appearances while setting numerous regular-season and postseason records.
Now 36, Kelce arrived in Kansas City at just 23 years old and saw limited action as a rookie. But the tight end has changed significantly over the years, going from a tapered haircut to a full beard and even sporting a mustache at times. Not to mention his dating life, as he got engaged to superstar musician Taylor Swift just last year.
Advertisement
And on Sunday, the Chiefs shared a social media post featuring a photo of Kelce from each season, showing how the tight end has changed over the last 13 years.
“Story’s not over yet 🏹,” the Chiefs wrote on Instagram. “Travis Kelce through the years.”
The NFL world took notice of Kelce’s transformation over his career in Kansas City, leaving their thoughts in the comments section.
“My favorite is the Chiefs winning the Super Bowl. That brings back memories,” one fan wrote.
Advertisement
“🥹 He is Chiefs football. He is a huge part of the memories I have of this team. #87 forever! 🫶❤️💛 Let’s gooooo!” added another.
“I love this! Thanks for sharing these pictures! It’s wonderful to think of the amazing man and player he has become in those 13 seasons!” wrote a third.
“Bro was majestic in 2014😂😂,” claimed a fourth.
“He’s only gotten better with age!!!” commented a fifth.
“He gets more beautiful with age! 🔥,” added a sixth.
Advertisement
Related: Russell Wilson, Chiefs Report Emerges After Patrick Mahomes News
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.