$30 billion sports giant could turn Travis Kelce’s post-NFL chapter into a major media career

Travis Kelce may have another major stage waiting for him whenever his NFL career finally comes to an end. The Kansas City Chiefs star has already shown that his appeal extends well beyond the football field, and ESPN could be among the networks interested in that star power. For now, though, Kelce is firmly focused on playing. His strong start to the 2026 season has only added to the uncertainty over when he might walk away.Travis Kelce's ESPN opportunity could grow after retirementKelce's television future is attracting attention because he has already proved he can handle a microphone. His connection with ESPN also has an interesting link through Joe Buck, who continues to call Monday Night Football with Troy Aikman.Buck signed a six-year extension with ESPN in September 2026. The network is also preparing to broadcast Super Bowl LXI in February 2027. That gives ESPN a strong platform for former players who can bring both football knowledge and personality to its coverage.Still, there is no deal between Kelce and ESPN. Any suggestion that he is joining the network remains speculation until the Chiefs star announces his retirement and chooses his next career move.Travis Kelce's media experience gives him an edgeKelce would not enter broadcasting as a complete newcomer. He hosted Saturday Night Live in 2023 and later became the host of Prime Video's Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity? He also co-hosts New Heights with his brother Jason Kelce, giving him years of experience speaking freely about football, sports culture and entertainment.Jason's own move into broadcasting could make the transition even more natural. After retiring from the Philadelphia Eagles, he joined ESPN as an analyst on Monday Night Countdown in 2024. Travis has watched that path unfold while building his own media profile.His playing career also gives him plenty to discuss. Kelce entered the 2026 season with three Super Bowl titles, seven All-Pro selections and more than 13,000 receiving yards. More importantly, his recent form suggests retirement may still be some distance away.Through three games this season, Kelce had 14 catches for 231 yards and two touchdowns. He led the Chiefs in all three receiving categories while helping Kansas City open the campaign 3-0.So, while ESPN could eventually be an appealing destination, Kelce has little reason to rush into the next chapter. For now, the Chiefs tight end still looks like he has plenty left to give on the field.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.