Travis Kelce Was Battling With a ‘Big Illness’ Going Into Super Bowl LIX, Says Chiefs GM

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Travis Kelce was not at full strength heading into Super Bowl LIX this year.
“He was dealing with a significant illness right before the Super Bowl,” stated Brett Veach, the Kansas City Chiefs' general manager, in an interview aired on the NFL "Insiders" podcast on Tuesday, February 25, with a snippet shared by host Tom Pelissero on X.

Veach mentioned that Kelce’s illness shouldn’t be viewed as an “excuse” for the Chiefs’ disappointing 40-22 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles in New Orleans on February 9. However, he remarked, “Considering the way the Eagles performed, it wouldn't have changed the outcome” regarding the star player.

Veach also commented on the future of Kelce in the NFL amid rumors that the 35-year-old Chiefs tight end might retire. “I believe Travis is eager to return,” Veach said. “He enhances our team both in the locker room and on the pitch. We’re looking forward to having him back.”

Kelce had previously discussed the Chiefs’ Super Bowl performance on the "New Heights" podcast he hosts with his brother Jason Kelce on February 12.

“Beyond the game, I just wanted to express my gratitude to my teammates for everything they do. The effort, the concentration, the hard work we put in—that wasn’t the issue,” he shared. “Before the game, I was as confident as I’ve ever been going into a Super Bowl, playoff game, or any major game in my life… It simply wasn't our day. We couldn’t gain any momentum.”

Kelce reflected on his own contribution to the defeat, stating, “I’m regretful about some of the little decisions I made on the field while trying to exceed my responsibilities… I didn’t exhibit the best leadership I could have in motivating my teammates, helping them stay calm and composed. I take a lot of that upon myself as someone who has been with the team for 12 years and witnessed a lot of football, having experienced a similar situation in a Super Bowl before… It’s a hard reality to accept.”

Kelce described how “every time” the Chiefs felt they “were getting somewhere” during the game, the situation would shift. “To face this for the second time in my career on the largest stage, it’s a bitter pill to swallow. It’s a tough truth… This sport can bring you back to earth very quickly.”