The Kansas City Chiefs will eventually need to plan for life after Travis Kelce, though it remains uncertain whether they will address the position this offseason. Retirement speculation has followed the star tight end for several years, but he has continued his playing career. While Kelce may not be producing at his former Pro Bowl level, he remains a trusted target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes in key moments.
In a November 11 mock draft, Nick Baumgardner projected the Chiefs to select Oregon tight end Jamari Johnson with the 26th overall pick. Baumgardner praised the potential fit, writing that the pairing could be difficult for other NFL teams to regret. Johnson, who is listed at 6-foot-4 and 245 pounds, has a strong collection of athletic traits, despite relatively modest production this season.
Through his first seven appearances in 2026, Johnson has recorded 29 receptions for 370 yards and three touchdowns. Dane Brugler ranked him as the No. 37 overall prospect ahead of the 2027 NFL Draft. Brugler noted that Johnson was averaging 52.6 receiving yards per game and described him as an athletic pass catcher with the potential to become a better professional player than college player.
## Media Interest Adds to Kelce Retirement Speculation
Kelce’s future remains uncertain, with speculation that he could retire after the 2026 season and pursue a media career. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk has suggested that multiple networks could compete for Kelce’s services. Kelce already has a connection with Amazon through the *New Heights* podcast, while his brother, Jason Kelce, has ties to ESPN.
Florio has speculated that Amazon, ESPN and other networks may all be interested in bringing Kelce into a broadcast role. Those reports have added to the questions surrounding whether the Chiefs’ tight end will continue playing in 2027.
## Could Kelce Return in 2027?
It is still early for definitive draft projections, and circumstances could change before the 2027 NFL Draft. Kelce could decide to play another season. He is under a one-year, $12 million contract for 2026, so his decision will be a key factor in Kansas City’s plans.
Regardless of Kelce’s choice, the Chiefs may benefit from preparing for the future at tight end. Selecting a prospect such as Johnson could give the team time to develop a potential successor while Kelce’s status remains unresolved.
