An NFL insider has shared insights into how Taylor Swift is helping Travis Kelce prepare mentally for the 2025-26 season following a challenging campaign last year.
ESPN broadcaster and former NFL punter, Pat McAfee, who is close enough to Kelce to have broken news of his return for the 2025 season, spoke about the positive influence Swift has on the Kansas City Chiefs tight end.
"I think they continue to inspire each other, I think they continue to motivate each other," McAfee said of the couple's relationship.
"I think they continue to motivate each other. I think they continue to be great for each other."
McAfee's comments come as Kelce looks to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 season that saw his production decline significantly.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have been dating since 2023GETTYThe couple has spent extended periods together during the offseason at each other's homes, including a recent stay in south Florida.
This quality time away from football appears to be helping Kelce reset after a season where many believed his high-profile relationship and activities outside football affected his on-field performance.
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McAfee emphasised the mutual support between Swift and Kelce, suggesting their relationship could be key to the tight end's return to elite form.
"And if Travis Kelce is all the way back, I think you immediately understand that the Chiefs are going to be where the Chiefs have been, and that's in title conversations," McAfee stated.
The broadcaster noted that Kelce appeared to be in the right mindset during a recent public appearance with Swift at a hockey game.
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Pat McAfee has seen up close how the two superstars push each other forward
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Kelce's 2024 season marked a significant decline from his typically dominant performances. The tight end managed only three touchdown catches throughout the entire regular season.
His struggles culminated in the Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in February, where he failed to make a meaningful catch during the game.
The statistical drop-off fueled speculation that Kelce's increased profile outside of football was impacting his on-field effectiveness.
His relationship with Swift and various off-field ventures drew criticism from those who believed he had lost focus.
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The disappointing campaign stood in stark contrast to Kelce's previous seasons, where he had established himself as one of the NFL's premier tight ends and a crucial component of Kansas City's offensive success.
Following a more low-key offseason compared to previous years, Kelce is scheduled to return to the Chiefs' offseason activities this week.
McAfee expressed optimism about the tight end's prospects for the upcoming season, suggesting that his time with Swift has helped him regain the proper mindset for football.
Travis Kelce struggled during the 2024 season
PAThe broadcaster believes Kelce's potential return to form could be crucial for Kansas City's championship aspirations in 2025.
His confidence stems from observing Kelce during recent public appearances, where the tight end appeared focused and ready to reclaim his status as one of the league's elite players.
How Kelce's offseason with Swift translates to on-field performance remains to be seen, but McAfee's assessment suggests the Chiefs could benefit from a rejuvenated version of their star tight end.
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