The expected playing career lifespan of most NFL players rarely passes ten years. The position’s grind is usually a factor in longevity, as the physicality can take a toll.
Chiefs All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce celebrated his 34th birthday on Thursday as he continues his surge up the NFL’s all-time list. He spoke with reporters on Friday to reflect on turning a year older and keep his body strong as he continues the football grind.
“I’m very fortunate to get to 34, man and to be able to do what I love,” Kelce said in comments to the media. “Man, I got a lot of shoutouts from family and friends and a lot of people reaching out yesterday. Chiefs Kingdom always shows love, and it’s an appreciating day. As much as everybody wants to make it about me. I just see how much family and friends that I have, that I have around me, and I, you know, it’s always a beautiful thing.”
Kelce is in his 11th season in the NFL, all with the Chiefs, and remains one of the most lethal offensive weapons in the league.
“Things that have popped up make you stay on top of them,” Kelce explained. “I think everybody gets to this point in their career, or if they’re fortunate enough to get to year 11 in their career, you definitely got to start to hone in on things even more and just, you know, just make sure that you’re available, you know, make sure that you’re doing everything you can to make yourself available. And that’s always been the mindset, for sure.”