Did Travis Kelce just tease a 2026 return after Eric Bieniemi’s return?
Even amid rumors of his retirement, he could Travis Kelce returns to the court in 2026 after The Kansas City Chiefs brought back Eric Bienimi?
Speaking about the New Heights hire, Kelce seemed thrilled that the Chiefs are bringing in Bienemi back as offensive coordinator. His rhetoric suggested he might return and reunite with his former offensive coordinator.
“Can’t wait to see him back in the building, man,” Kelce raved. “He’s one of my favorite coaches of all time; one of my favorite people of all time. I’ve had so many incredible moments of growth under him as a player, as a person, and I just love the guy, and it’s going to be great to see him back in the building and see him come back with the Chiefs logo, baby.”
“I can’t wait to see him back in the building, he’s one of my favorite coaches of all time.”
Travis shared his thoughts on (presumably shirtless) Eric Bienimi returning to the Chiefs pic.twitter.com/MRmdNAcIar
— Nev Heights (@nevheightshov) January 21, 2026
Kelce never explicitly said he was coming back. However, what he said suggests he seems keen to reunite with the coach. Either way, Kelce believes the two sides will be able to pick up where they left off after Bienimi left in 2023.
Travis Kelce should be excited that the Chiefs have Eric Bieniemi back
Bieniemi left the Chiefs after being with them for almost a decade. He started as the team’s running backs coach in 2013. In 2018, his first year with Patrick Mahomes as the starter, he was promoted to offensive coordinator.
He remained in that position until 2023, when he became assistant head coach and offensive coordinator. That would only last a year, and Bienimi would then join UCLA as the assistant head coach and offensive coordinator. In 2025, he joined the Chicago Bears as their running backs coach.
Kelce last had 1,000 yards under Bienimi in his final year with the team. Since then, Kelce has had 984, 823 and 851 yards in his seasons without Bieniemi. He also scored just 13 touchdowns in that stretch after scoring 12 in 2022. If he decides to return, expect Kelce to return to form.
2026-01-21 17:37:00
