The New Heights page posted a video depicting Kelce’s image over Jordan Belfort’s head in the iconic scene from The Wolf of Wall Street where Belfort not so subtly announces he’s “not leaving” the company. You know the scene. Kelce’s return was reported earlier by Pat McAfee, who read a text from an unnamed source — which was very clearly Kelce — that said, “I’m coming back for sure.” Kelce said his performance in the Super Bowl left a “bad taste” in his mouth and that he’s hoping to return next season in the best shape of his life as he prepares for his 13th NFL season. By his standards, Kelce had a down 2024. While we wouldn’t expect him to bounce back to his old form, he should still have plenty to offer as a reliable option in the passing game, and could still prove to be among the best producers at the tight end position, even if his efficiency totals continue to fall off.

Without directly naming Kelce as his source, McAfee, who was reading text messages from his phone, all but confirmed it was Kelce who confirmed his return. McAfee said the “source” he reached out to regarding Kelce’s future replied to his text saying, “I’m coming back for sure. I’m gonna try and get to the best shape I’ve been this offseason and get back to the mountaintop.” This “source” also said he had a “real bad taste” in his mouth about how he played in his last game. Kelce caught 97 passes for 823 yards and three touchdowns last season — all very strong numbers by most tight end standards. That said, his play took a noticeable dip last season, as the 823 yards he totaled were his fewest since 2014, while his 8.5 YPR set a new career low by more than two yards. Kelce will be 35 at the start of next season and can still provide the Chiefs reliable hands in the passing game, but it seems clear that his best days are likely behind him, even if he does manage to get in the best shape of his career.

Veach also shot down the idea that March 15, when Kelce is due a hefty roster bonus, is a deadline for Kelce to make a decision. Andy Reid, on the other hand, didn’t have anything definitive to say on the matter when speaking with reporters. Nothing is final and Veach made that clear, but it does sound like Kelce will be back for one more year. The age-35 tight end is coming off a down year for his lofty standards. He was held to 823 yards at 6.2 yards per target. Both marks were the worst of his career excluding his redshirt rookie season. Even if Kelce comes back, the Chiefs will need to add more firepower to their pass-catching group this offseason.

March 15, per Graziano, would be considered a “soft deadline” for Kelce to decide if he’ll retire or play another season with the Chiefs. It’s on the day that $11.5 million is due to Kelce as a roster bonus. Kelce, 35, who said on February 11 that he would “take some time” before making the call to return for a 13th NFL season, could conceivably collect that bonus and announce his retirement later in the spring or summer. “But it’s important to mention this is one of the greatest players in franchise history and isn’t likely to be shoved out the door over $11.5 million,” Graziano said. Kelce’s decision will impact the entire Kansas City offense and will continue to be a top storyline of the NFL offseason.