KANSAS CITY, Mo. — For the first time in over a decade, the Kansas City Chiefs are entering an offseason without a playoff game on the schedule, but they will be doing so with their leader firmly at the helm. Head coach Andy Reid officially silenced mounting retirement rumors on Monday, announcing his “final decision” to return for the 2026 NFL season.
Addressing reporters during his season-ending Zoom call, the 67-year-old coach brought his trademark dry humor to the conversation regarding his future. “I mean, I think I’m coming back, right? If they’ll have me back, I’ll come back,” Reid joked. “But I plan on it, yeah. I haven’t really thought about the other part.”
The 2025 season was arguably the most grueling of Reid’s tenure in Kansas City. Between a season-ending injury to Patrick Mahomes in December, a struggling offense, and a final 6-10 record, many league insiders wondered if the future Hall of Famer would choose to go out on his own terms. However, Reid’s announcement signals his intent to oversee the team’s transition and roster re-tooling in 2026.
While Reid is confirmed to return, the status of his surrounding cast remains in flux. Star tight end Travis Kelce has yet to make a definitive statement on his future, with a decision expected by March. Additionally, the coaching staff could see major changes; reports indicate Offensive Coordinator Matt Nagy has declined a contract extension, potentially opening the door for a new offensive philosophy to be implemented under Reid’s supervision.
Financial and legacy factors also play a role in Reid’s return. He remains under a massive contract extension signed in 2024 that runs through 2029, and he continues to climb the all-time coaching wins list. With 307 career victories, Reid is within striking distance of George Halas (324) and Don Shula (347), a pursuit that many believe motivates him to stay on the sidelines.
As the Chiefs organization prepares for a high draft pick and the return of a healthy Patrick Mahomes, Reid’s presence provides a vital sense of stability. After a year of uncharacteristic struggles and locker room frustration, the message from the front office is clear: the road back to the Super Bowl will still be paved by “Big Red.”
