Travis Kelce, the star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, has been one of the most dominant players in the NFL for nearly a decade. With Super Bowl wins, All-Pro selections, and countless highlight-reel plays, Kelce has cemented his place among the greats at his position. But recently, on the popular debate show Nightcap, hosts Unc and Ocho raised a provocative question: Is Travis Kelce cooked? Should he retire?

The debate, as expected, has sparked a firestorm of opinions. Is Kelce still the elite talent we’ve seen in previous seasons, or is Father Time beginning to catch up with him? Let’s dive into the heated discussion, break down both sides, and try to answer one of the biggest questions facing the Chiefs and Kelce’s future.

The Case for Kelce’s Decline

Unc and Ocho have both been critical at times of Kelce’s recent performances, particularly in light of his less-than-ideal season at the tail end of 2024. The argument for Kelce’s potential decline rests on a few key observations.

First, there’s the issue of age. At 34 years old (as of 2025), Kelce is no spring chicken for a professional athlete, especially at the tight end position, which requires a combination of strength, speed, and agility. While many players can maintain a high level of performance into their 30s, tight ends typically experience a steeper decline than players at other positions.

Critics point to Kelce’s decline in production as a sign that the writing may be on the wall. His ability to create separation from defenders has become less pronounced, and his yards after catch (YAC) have decreased significantly compared to previous years. Additionally, his injury history, including issues with his knee, could be a sign that his body is beginning to break down.

The Argument Against Retirement: Kelce is Still Elite

On the other side of the debate, there are plenty who believe that the notion of Kelce retiring is premature. Despite some setbacks, Kelce’s talent is undeniable. He continues to be a dominant force on the field and remains one of quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ go-to targets in critical moments.

Kelce’s production may have dipped slightly, but he still remains one of the top tight ends in the league. In the 2024 season, he finished with impressive numbers—over 1,000 receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns—which is a remarkable feat, especially considering his age. His experience, football IQ, and chemistry with Mahomes are unmatched, and when the Chiefs need a big play, it’s often Kelce who steps up.

It’s also important to note that Kelce plays in an offense that features many weapons, including a dynamic receiving corps. The Chiefs have other playmakers, which may take some of the attention away from Kelce, but he remains a focal point in the red zone and in clutch situations.

Moreover, Kelce’s leadership and role in the locker room cannot be understated. He is the heart and soul of the Chiefs’ offense and plays a vital role in mentoring the younger players on the team. His experience and presence are invaluable assets that go beyond just statistics.

Is Travis Kelce ‘Cooked’?

So, is Travis Kelce “cooked”? It’s a bit of a complicated question. While it’s true that his performance has shown signs of slowing down, calling him “cooked” seems a bit extreme. Kelce has been one of the best tight ends in NFL history, and it’s unfair to expect him to remain in peak form year after year. That said, his skills and leadership still have value, and he can still make a significant impact on the field.

The Chiefs’ success moving forward will likely depend on how Kelce is used in their system. There’s no question that Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid will continue to rely on him in critical situations, and if Kelce can stay healthy and adjust his game, he could remain a force for another few seasons.

Should Kelce Retire?

The question of whether Kelce should retire comes down to several factors. Physically, Kelce could likely continue playing for another season or two, depending on his health. Mentally, it’s clear that he still has the drive and passion to play at a high level, and his leadership remains an essential part of the Chiefs’ culture.

However, the decision also involves how much longer Kelce is willing to put his body through the grueling demands of the NFL. If his production continues to decline and he begins to feel the effects of his injuries, it may be time for Kelce to step away from the game. There’s no shame in walking away from a sport as physically demanding as football when your body begins to break down, and if Kelce feels that he’s no longer at the level he wants to be, retirement could be a very real possibility.

For now, though, Kelce is still a valuable asset to the Chiefs. If he remains healthy and continues to contribute in the ways that he can, there’s no reason to believe he couldn’t continue playing at a high level for another season or two.

The Final Verdict: A Legacy of Greatness

Whether Travis Kelce decides to retire or continue playing for another year or two, one thing is clear: his legacy is secure. He has already solidified himself as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. His time with the Chiefs has been nothing short of spectacular, and he’s played a major role in the team’s Super Bowl victories and sustained success.

As for the question of whether he’s “cooked,” it’s important to remember that even a slightly diminished Kelce is still a top-tier player. The Chiefs will continue to use him as a primary weapon in their offense, and while the clock may be ticking on his career, there’s no rush to hang up the cleats just yet.

The debate about his future will continue, but for now, Travis Kelce remains a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.