Some partnerships in sports are legendary. Ones that are etched into the very fabric of the game. Think Jordan and Pippen, Federer and Nadal, or Brady and Gronk. Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce have certainly earned their place among these icons in recent years. But could this season mark the end of their run? Comments appearing in the last few days have sparked intrigue about Kelce’s future with the Chiefs. What’s his partner’s take on this?

Mahomes appeared on 96.5 The Fan with Carrington Harrison on January 21. And Showtime was asked if the AFC Championship could be Kelce’s final game at Arrowhead. The 35-year-old tight end had a remarkable playoff resume. However, he has hinted at retirement throughout the season. Mahomes’ response? Honest yet heartfelt: “I have no idea. He hasn’t said anything to me if he’s thinking that. I know he’s signed the two-year extension before the season. And he seems like he still loves football, but he also has a great life as well.”

Mahomes didn’t stop there. “Either way, I appreciate every single time I’ve stepped out onto that field with that guy,” he added. “If it’s his last game, let’s go out there and get him a win. If it’s not his last game, let’s go out and win anyway.” The Chiefs’ quarterback’s sentiment underlines their incredible bond. A bond that is forged through countless victories, Super Bowl titles, and an unyielding drive for greatness. But what does this mean for Kelce’s decision?

Kelce’s stats this season have been below his usual standards. Still, it reflects his importance to the Chiefs. He has bagged 87 catches and 823 yards. And he follows it up with three touchdowns. Yet his age and physical toll have prompted questions about his longevity. Mahomes called Kelce “Playoff Trav” after the game against the Texans. Kelce’s performance has promises of him shining brighter in the postseason. But can he sustain this?

This Sunday’s AFC Championship Game against the Bills may offer some clarity. Kansas City is chasing history—a chance at the NFL’s first-ever Super Bowl three-peat. Kelce holds the second-most playoff receiving yards (2,020) and touchdowns (20). One can’t overstate his impact. Mahomes’ appreciation and their shared pursuit of greatness add another layer to this high-stakes moment.

Mahomes’ lighthearted critique reveals Kelce’s competitive edge

While Mahomes celebrated Kelce’s brilliance, he also teased the tight end’s missed touchdown against the Texans. Harrison sparked the conversation on 96.5 The Fan. “I feel like you had to rhythm a little bit, because I feel like a younger Travis Kelce absolutely scores a touchdown on that play in the first half.” Mahomes was quick to reply playfully.

Mahomes said, “I gave him. I gave him a little bit after the game. So you guys are getting the knees up again. He has to drive a little bit more.” Kelce’s response? It came later in the game. A 49-yard catch and run showcased his ability to deliver in crucial moments, setting up Kareem Hunt’s one-yard touchdown run. The play reminded fans that Kelce may have lost a step. But his impact remains undeniable.

“When we get to these big moments, when the biggest stages, he goes out there and plays his best football,” Mahomes remarked. It’s this knack for shining under pressure that continues to define Kelce as one of the game’s greats. The Chiefs’ dominance against the Texans highlighted their championship pedigree, with Mahomes and Kelce leading the charge. The duo’s chemistry remains the heartbeat of Kansas City’s offense. Even as speculation looms about Kelce’s future.

Sunday’s clash with the Bills could be the ultimate litmus test for Kelce’s decision. Mahomes’ words—a mix of admiration and playful critique—capture their bond. Kansas City aims for history. And fans are pondering: Is this the last chapter for this iconic duo?

Will Kelce opt to continue playing or embrace new opportunities? Regardless, his legacy as a transformative player has already been cemented. For now, the focus remains on one goal: another Super Bowl triumph.