The Kansas City Chiefs held their annual preseason ‘Kickoff Luncheon’ but Travis Kelce was noticeably absent from the event.
The Chiefs held their traditional ‘Kickoff Luncheon’ on September 1 to mark the start of the 2026 NFL season, with the franchise’s first regular-season game on September 14 against the Denver Broncos.
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While the event is usually attended by all core players and coaches of the team, star TE Kelce was not in attendance for what might be his final kickoff luncheon if he retires at the end of the season.
Announcer Mitch Holthus confirmed to attendees that Kelce missed the Kickoff Luncheon due to an undisclosed illness, but no other notable players were absent.
“Travis Kelce is not at the Chiefs’ annual kickoff luncheon. Under the weather, per Mitch Holthus.”
This appears to be the first time Kelce has missed the event in his career, having been present and photographed at all prior luncheons.
The 36-year-old being ‘under the weather’ is a way to soothe fans who might worry about an illness sidetracking Kelce from playing in Week 1.
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It’s best if he takes time off to recover instead of making public appearances so close to the season.
The Kickoff Luncheon has been hosted annually since 1962 by the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce for the Chiefs before the NFL season.
The 2026 edition featured star QB Patrick Mahomes as well as franchise head coach Andy Reid addressing everyone on stage, although Kelce was absent.
This event is a way for local businesses to show support for the Chiefs, with members of the team and its ownership giving speeches and thanking the local community that supports them.
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The event happens every year between the last week of August and first week of September and is an unofficial way of acknowledging that the new season is officially here.
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