Travis Kelce nearly retired if Rashee Rice hadn’t intervened. The young wide receiver wanted to keep playing with Kelce because he wanted to win more Super Bowls.
Rice missed the second year of his NFL career after hurting his knee in week one. Even though his recovery process was on the right track, legal issues restricted him from making any appearances the entire season.
Despite missing one of the best young receivers in the NFL, the Chiefs reached their third consecutive Super Bowl but lost 40-22 to the Philadelphia Eagles. Following the disappointing outcome, Kelce contemplated retiring from football. However, Rice convinced him to abort the plans.
I ain’t gonna lie to y’all, I’m 95% of the reason he [Travis Kelce] ain’t retiring.
Rashee Rice told former NFL WR Brandon Marshall on Revolt.
The answer intrigued Marshall, who asked Rice to elaborate on his exchange with Kelce regarding his retirement plans.
I told him he can’t go out like that. I’m gonna make sure we get that next year. He was finna hang it up. I’m pretty sure he was gonna hang it up. And I’m like, ‘Bro, we can’t go out like that.’ I texted him… He’s like, ‘You really got me thinking about it. I really appreciate you reaching out to me.’
Rashee Rice added.
Only a year ago, in 2024, Travis’ older brother Jason Kelce said goodbye to football, and he too seemed close to following in his footsteps. However, the All-Pro tight end surprised everyone by announcing that he would return to the Chiefs for the 2025 season.
[And] then I seen it pop up on the media. I said, ‘All right now’.
Rashee Rice concluded.
The Chiefs gave Kelce an ultimatum to make up his mind quickly or retire. He opted to stick around a bit longer.
He was fired up, he has one more year under contract. Still think he has that fire and desire to play. We left it as, he’d be back and we’re excited to get him back and get him going.
Chiefs general manager Brett Veach revealed.
