Travis Kelce is one of the most iconic NFL players of his generation — a multiple-time All-Pro tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, three-time Super Bowl champion, and global sports figure. But before his NFL stardom, Kelce faced a major early-career setback in college. Now in the final stretch of his 13th NFL season, retirement rumors are swirling. Let’s look at what really happened — and if this is truly his last year.
Why Was Travis Kelce Kicked Out of College? The Real Story
Many fans don’t know that Kelce’s path to NFL greatness wasn’t smooth at first. During his time at the University of Cincinnati, Kelce struggled with off-field decisions early in his college career.
In 2010, as a redshirt sophomore, Kelce failed a drug test for marijuana, which led to a full-season suspension from the Bearcats football team.
Because of that suspension, he was effectively removed from the active lineup — which some describe as being “kicked out” of the team. Rather than being permanently expelled from school, he lost his spot on the field and was forced to re-focus.
How That Setback Changed His Career
Ironically, that setback became a turning point:
Position Change
Before the suspension, Kelce played in a hybrid role — sometimes as a Wildcat quarterback and sometimes as a tight end. Once he returned, coaches moved him to full-time tight end.
A New Path to the NFL
His work ethic and focus after returning propelled him to a standout senior season. Kelce recorded:
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45 catches
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722 yards
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8 touchdowns
in 2012, earning serious NFL attention.
Life Lesson
Kelce has spoken about the suspension as a wake-up call. It forced him to grow up, mature, and lock in on his football future.
Is Travis Kelce Retiring After This Year? The Latest Updates
As the NFL season winds down, rumors about Kelce’s future are everywhere — and they’re more intense than ever.
Retirement Rumors Heating Up
Several recent reports suggest that Kelce might be nearing the end of his career. NFL legends and analysts have speculated that his age (36) and the physical toll of a long career could push him toward retirement after this season.
Chiefs Season Performance
The Chiefs missed the playoffs this season — a rare disappointment for the franchise — and Kelce’s team performance has fueled chatter that this could be his swan song.
What Kelce Himself Has Said
Despite the speculation:
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Kelce has not officially announced his retirement yet.
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He has delayed any final decision until after the season, saying he’ll work it out with his family and the Chiefs when the time comes.
He even joked about retirement in recent press conferences — balancing humor with seriousness — showing how complex this choice is for him.
Love for the Game
Kelce has repeatedly mentioned that his passion for football and desire to compete at a high level are major reasons he hasn’t retired yet — even saying he’d play longer if he could.
Off-Field Life
Off the field, Kelce’s high-profile relationship and engagement with Taylor Swift have also led to speculation that he might pursue life outside football — possibly in media, entertainment, or business — once his playing days are over.
What This Means for His Legacy
If this is Kelce’s final season, he’s likely to be remembered as:
One of the greatest tight ends in NFL history
A leader who helped define the Chiefs’ dynasty
A player who overcame early adversity to thrive
A cultural icon crossing sports & entertainment
Whether he retires or continues, his impact is already undeniable.
Final Takeaway
Travis Kelce wasn’t expelled from college academically — but a failed drug test and suspension nearly derailed his football journey.
Today, he’s facing the toughest decision of his life: whether to retire from the NFL after this season.
No final announcement has been made yet, and Kelce himself is still considering all his options.
