Travis Kelce Aims to Break Gronkowski’s TD Record Before Retirement

Travis Kelce, the star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, is eyeing a significant milestone in his career as he approaches the end of his contract. As he enters the final year of his $34.25 million deal, retirement seems increasingly likely after the 2025 season. Following the Chiefs’ heartbreaking loss in the Super Bowl in February 2025, Kelce admitted he briefly contemplated stepping away from the game. Although he has chosen to return for one last season, insiders suggest this may be his final opportunity to make a mark on the NFL.

Kelce, now 35, has reportedly begun to anticipate retirement, with one insider telling the Daily Mail, “This should be the end.” This sentiment highlights the reality that Kelce’s illustrious career may soon come to a close, regardless of the challenges that accompany such a decision. Before he hangs up his cleats, there remains one crucial achievement within reach: surpassing Rob Gronkowski’s all-time touchdown record for tight ends.

Chasing the Record

Gronkowski retired with an impressive total of 93 touchdowns, and Kelce is currently positioned at 81. This leaves him 13 touchdowns short of the record, a significant challenge given that he recorded only three touchdowns in the previous season. Throughout his career, Kelce has maintained an average of between 6 and 9 touchdowns per season, with a peak of 12 touchdowns in one season. However, his performance in 2024 was notably below his usual standards, marking one of the lowest output years of his career.

To surpass Gronkowski this year, Kelce would need to deliver one of his most prolific scoring seasons. Thus far, early signs have been less than promising, particularly regarding his performance during a recent game in Brazil. In that match, he recorded just one catch for ten yards until a crucial moment late in the game. With a little over 12 minutes remaining, he finally broke free downfield and caught a 37-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Patrick Mahomes, which ignited excitement among the Brazilian crowd. Unfortunately for Kelce and the Chiefs, this moment of brilliance was not enough to secure a victory.

The upcoming months will be pivotal for Kelce as he attempts to not only extend his career but also solidify his legacy in the NFL. Achieving the milestone of surpassing Gronkowski’s record could add a significant chapter to his already remarkable career. Whether he can reach this goal remains to be seen, but fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the season unfolds.