Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has affirmed his intention to return for the 2026 NFL season, despite a challenging 6-10 campaign that ended without playoffs. At 67, Reid dismissed retirement talk and expressed confidence in the team's future. His comments come amid uncertainties surrounding key players like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.
Andy Reid, entering his 27th consecutive season as an NFL head coach, made it clear on Monday that he has no plans to retire after the Chiefs' disappointing 2025 season. The team finished 6-10, marking their first losing record under Reid and their first playoff miss since 2014. When pressed on whether any scenario would prevent his return, Reid responded with a smile: "I think I'm coming back, right? If they'll have me back (chuckles), I'll come back. You never know in this business, so that's a tough one, but I plan on it, yeah."
Reid, who will turn 68 in March, has been with the Chiefs for 13 years following 14 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. He is under contract through 2029 after a 2024 extension. The season was marred by injuries, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes' ACL tear in Week 15, which coincided with the team's elimination from playoff contention. The Chiefs struggled in close games, going 1-8 in one-possession contests.
Looking ahead, Reid is optimistic about the 2026 NFL Draft, where the Chiefs are projected to select ninth. He praised general manager Brett Veach: "With [General Manager] Brett [Veach] and his crew doing it, that part's exciting to see and what takes place. Something to look forward to."
Mahomes, 30, is expected to recover fully for the 2026 opener. CBS Sports injury analyst Marty Jaramillo noted that ACL rehabilitation typically takes 6-8 months, with no long-term concerns. Despite the team's woes, Mahomes ranked eighth in expected points added per play, though he posted a career-low 4.4% touchdown rate.
Tight end Travis Kelce's future remains uncertain as his contract expires. Kelce, who led the team with 73 catches for 839 yards and five touchdowns—tying for the most—broke the Chiefs' career touchdown record this season. He said: "Honestly, I've just been focused on trying to win football games, man. I'll make that decision with my family, friends and the Chiefs organization when the time comes."
The Chiefs face salary cap challenges, needing to restructure deals for Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones. Several players, including Kelce, running backs Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco, linebacker Leo Chenal, cornerback Jaylen Watson, and safety Brian Cook, will hit free agency. Priorities include bolstering the running back position, pass rush, receiving options, offensive line depth, and defensive backs.
