Travis Kelce grows business empire with $53m hydration deal

Travis Kelce (Image via Getty Images)

Travis Kelce was already looking beyond football when the 2025 NFL season approached. Last September, just days before the Kansas City Chiefs opened their campaign in Brazil, the star tight end added another business venture to his growing portfolio.

Kelce announced a partnership with organic hydration company Recover 180, taking on roles as both an investor and brand partner while preparing for another demanding NFL season.

Travis Kelce added Recover 180 to his business portfolio in 2025

The announcement came on September 2, 2025, as Kelce prepared for his 13th NFL season. His timing was notable. The Chiefs were set to face the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, and Kelce was focused on returning to form after a 2024 season he viewed as below his usual standard.Rather than simply attaching his name to another product, Kelce joined Recover 180 as an investor. The move fit a pattern that had become increasingly clear in his career. His influence stretched well beyond the football field, with business interests and partnerships spanning fashion, fitness, food and lifestyle brands.Kelce had also recently launched a collection with American Eagle alongside athletes such as Jeremiah Smith, Drew Allar, Suni Lee and Kiyan Anthony.

His wider portfolio included partnerships with Patrón, Hydrow and General Mills. He also co-owned Garage Beer with his brother, Jason Kelce.Speaking about the Recover 180 partnership last year, Kelce said:“When it comes to performing at your highest level, quality matters,” Kelce said. “I’ve been drinking RECOVER 180 because it’s clean, organic hydration with ingredients that support peak performance. Having a healthier recovery option is a game-changer, and I love investing in something that’s truly pushing the category forward.”The brand also highlighted why Kelce was a natural fit for its plans. Boardroom described the three-time Super Bowl champion as someone whose athletic career and public profile could help introduce the company to a broader audience.

Travis Kelce reveals Patrick Mahomes influenced his decision to return to Chiefs this year

Travis Kelce has revealed that Patrick Mahomes’ determination during his recovery played a major role in his decision to continue playing for the Kansas City Chiefs this year. Mahomes suffered a serious injury, underwent surgery and worked relentlessly to return to the field, determined to help Kansas City compete for another Super Bowl.While the Chiefs may not enter the season as overwhelming favorites, Kelce believes Mahomes’ mindset gives the team a strong chance of contending. Speaking about his quarterback, Kelce said he could see Mahomes’ determination and frustration over how the previous season unfolded.

That mindset reportedly influenced Kelce’s decision not to retire. Kelce explained that knowing Mahomes and seeing what he was going through became a “huge reason” why he remains in the NFL, adding that he wants to be there for his longtime teammate “in every aspect of the game.”Mahomes and Kelce have developed one of the NFL’s most successful partnerships, both on and off the field. Kelce’s comments highlight the personal bond between the two stars and show how much Mahomes’ comeback means to him. As the new season approaches, their continued partnership could once again become central to Kansas City’s championship hopes.