Kelce: I let Chiefs down more than I helped them in 2024
Travis Kelce is returning for another season after feeling like he played below his standards in 2024.
"I still feel like I can play (football) at a high level and possibly at a higher level than I did last year. I don't think it was my best outing," the Kansas City chiefs tight end said on Wednesday's episode of his "New Heights" podcast. "I think I let my guys down in a lot more moments than I helped them, especially if you look at my track record and how I've been in years past.
"I want to give it a good run. I got a bad taste in my mouth on how I ended the year and how well I was playing and how accountable I was for the people around me."
The future Hall of Famer announced last week he is returning for the 2025 campaign amid speculation that he would retire. Kelce turns 36 in October and has one year left on his contract with a projected $19.8-million cap hit, according to Over the Cap.
The Chiefs lost Super Bowl LIX to the Philadelphia Eagles, falling one win short of a historic three-peat. Kelce didn't register a catch until the second half with Kansas City trailing 27-0. He finished with four catches for 39 yards.
Kelce recorded 823 receiving yards and three touchdowns in 2024, his lowest season totals since appearing in just one game as a rookie. However, he led the team with 97 receptions (the closest Chief was Xavier Worthy with 59 catches).
Kelce is a three-time Super Bowl champion and seven-time All-Pro. He's broken numerous NFL records across 12 seasons, all with the Chiefs.