Kansas City, MO – May 16, 2025
Chiefs icon Travis Kelce stunned fans Tuesday, slashing his salary by millions to remain with Kansas City for the 2025 season, sources confirmed. In a fiery livestream, the tight end shared his heartfelt reasons as Organized Team Activities approach.
Kelce, 35, took a pay cut from $19.8 million to $13.2 million, prioritizing a final Super Bowl run. With 823 yards in 2024 and a 80.2 PFF grade, the three-time champion cited loyalty and legacy. “This is my home,” Kelce declared, per sources.
The move bolsters Kansas City’s $12.7 million cap, enabling signings like Amari Cooper and Jadeveon Clowney. Kelce’s sacrifice joins JuJu Smith-Schuster’s pay cut, fortifying an offense that logged just 2,312 receiving yards last season. “Travis is our heart,” coach Andy Reid said.
The Chiefs’ draft—Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith—added youth, but Kelce’s leadership remains vital. With Rashee Rice facing a potential suspension, his presence steadies Patrick Mahomes’ attack. GM Brett Veach called it “a legacy-defining choice.”
Chiefs Kingdom erupted with pride. With two remaining picks, including No. 226, Kansas City eyes secondary depth. Kelce’s sacrifice, revealed with passion, fuels 2025 Super Bowl dreams, cementing his legend in Chiefs lore.
