Travis Kelce retirement rumors intensify: 6 stars Kansas City Chiefs could target to replace the NFL legend, including Deebo Samuel

Travis Kelce has been the greatest pass catcher in Kansas City Chiefs history. Despite being a tight end, the 12-year veteran holds the franchise’s all-time record in receiving yards, touchdowns, and catches. Which is quite an achievement since Hall-of-Famer Tony Gonzalez previously held those records. However, all good things come to an end.

Over the last couple of seasons, the 35-year-old has flirted with the idea that the end of his career is near. This week, Bleacher Report NFL insider James Palmer reported that sources inside the organization believe the football star with a burgeoning acting career is leaning toward retirement. His departure would create a massive hole on offense. One that can’t be filled by another tight end.

If Travis Kelce does retire, here are six star pass catchers the Kansas City Chiefs could target to be their new No. 1 receiver in 2025.

Deebo Samuel

One of the biggest names that could be on the move this offseason is San Francisco 49 veteran Deebo Samuel. A few years ago he was seen as one of the best all-around receivers in the game. However, the rise of Brandon Aiyuk and injuries have led to a steep decline in his performance over the last three seasons. He will certainly be considered by the Chiefs this offseason if Kelce retires. And he would only cost KC a couple of Day 3 draft picks in a trade.

Tee Higgins

If the Chiefs want to go all-in on getting a player that can be their No. 1 target for the next five years, Tee Higgins may be the best option this offseason. He is the top receiver in free agency because he is young and has No. 1 receiver potential. The biggest issue is he will be very expensive. So the Chiefs will need to clear more cap space to land him. But a Higgins and Patrick Mahomes combo could be nasty.

Davante Adams

There is a very real chance Davante Adams will be playing elsewhere in 2025. While the six-time Pro Bowler is exiting his prime, he still posted a fifth straight 1,000+ yard season despite playing for two bad offenses last year. If he is a cap casualty and comes at a reasonable rate, he would be a great short-term No. 1 option alongside Xavier Worthy next season.

Stefon Diggs

Four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs tore his ACL at the absolute worst time as he hits free agency this spring. Since he suffered the injury early in the 2024 season, there is a good chance he can be ready early in 2025. He would certainly be a risk after such a serious injury. But maybe a one-year prove-it deal to play with the best QB in the sport would intrigue Diggs.

Amari Cooper

Amari Cooper is an underrated star. Despite being a five-time Pro Bowler he is rarely mentioned in conversations about the elite players at his position. Although he had a disappointing season in 2024, the 30-year-old is still a very good receiver. And would come at a far cheaper rate than someone like Tee Higgins.

Tyreek Hill

Now, we get to our boldest suggestion: Tyreek Hill. This month the star receiver seemed to smooth things over with the Dolphins after some curious comments at the end of the season. However, after another disappointing campaign, Miami could decide they are better off without his sizable contract on their books.

If the Kansas City Chiefs are open to giving up a Day 2 pick and the Dolphins will pick up some of Hill’s remaining money, a shocking reunion with the eight-time Pro Bowler may not be completely impossible.