Chiefs Release Multiple Tight Ends After Kelce's Retirement Delay

Travis Kelce has confirmed his return to the Kansas City Chiefs for the 2025 NFL season, prompting the team to release backup tight ends Anthony Firkser and Baylor Cupp as they reshape the position group. Kelce, coming off a season with lower production by his standards, has expressed his intent to play at a higher level and is motivated by the team's recent Super Bowl loss. Chiefs general manager Brett Veach and coach Andy Reid acknowledge that Kelce's role in the offense will shift, focusing less on personal statistics and more on elevating the play of those around him. The Chiefs have also added rookie tight end Jake Briningstool and are preparing for a future where Kelce transitions into a leadership and mentoring role on the field. This roster restructuring reflects the team's broader efforts to maintain a competitive edge and adapt as Kelce nears the end of his career.