Chiefs' Reid offers positive update on talks with star TE Kelce - ESPN

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Chiefs coach Andy Reid usually smiles whenever someone mentions tight end Travis Kelce. The veteran coach was smiling again Friday while discussing Kelce's status for next season during a news conference ahead of next week's NFL combine.

Reid's demeanor and positive tone when describing talks with Kelce seemed to indicate the 13-year veteran could be leaning toward re-signing with the Chiefs for at least another season instead of retiring.

«There is communication,» Reid said of talks with Kelce. «That's the main thing. I've said this before: As long as there's communication, I'm good. That means people want to move forward. I think that's where Travis is.»

Six weeks ago, when the Chiefs' season ended, Kelce said he was uncertain of his future. However, he vowed to make a decision for next season by early March before NFL free agency begins.

Kelce made several public appearances in the days leading up to Super Bowl LX, and several members of the Chiefs' organization say they expect him to return, which would give him another year of playing alongside quarterback Patrick Mahomes, his best friend on the team.

«I'm not trying to put words in his mouth at all, and I try to give him some space here,» Reid added. «He's been doing this a long time, and he can sort all that out as he goes forward. But we're proceeding with that.»

Even at age 36, Kelce led the Chiefs in targets (108), receptions (76), yards (851), touchdowns (5) and receiving first downs (45). His base salary last season was $4.5 million, although his roster bonus was $12.5 million. Following the Chiefs' loss to the Las Vegas Raiders in the regular-season finale, Kelce declined to say whether he would accept a similar contract or reduced salary