In October, Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce became the target of a burglary at his home. Following the investigation, the FBI has now issued a warning to players, including Kelce, about a series of burglaries believed to be the work of South American organized theft groups.
According to NBC News, these criminal groups are known for conducting thorough surveillance, evaluating security measures, and specifically targeting professional athletes who possess high-value items such as cash, jewelry, and electronics. As part of their warning, the FBI has urged athletes to be cautious about displaying valuable items on social media.
FBI Memo to Leagues and Athletes
The FBI has communicated with various leagues to ensure that athletes are aware of the rising threat. A U.S. official briefed on the matter shared that the bureau issued a "liaison information report" urging leagues to advise players against posting images of their valuables online. "The bureau recently issued the best-practices memo as part of a long-standing practice of communicating with private businesses about crime trends," NBC News reported last week.
Kelce's Public Life and Security Challenges
For Travis Kelce, adhering to the FBI’s advice may prove challenging. Since beginning his relationship with Taylor Swift, one of the world’s most recognizable celebrities, Kelce’s public profile has grown exponentially. Swift is known for her luxurious lifestyle, and since their relationship became public, Kelce has often been seen wearing high-end designer clothing and jewelry. Given their frequent public appearances and the number of photographs snapped of the couple, maintaining a low profile is not a practical option.
Enhanced Security Measures After Burglary Incident
Following the burglary at his home, it is likely that Kelce has taken additional steps to secure his property. As a high-profile athlete, Kelce's privacy and security have become more critical than ever.
Kelce's Focus Shifts to NFL Playoffs
Despite the burglary incident and challenges in maintaining privacy, Kelce and the Chiefs are focusing on the upcoming NFL playoffs. The Chiefs, having earned the top seed in the AFC along with a first-round bye, are gearing up for their postseason run.
Although Kelce is having one of his worst statistical seasons in recent memory, the Chiefs are still in a strong position to achieve a historic third consecutive Super Bowl win, a feat never before accomplished in the NFL. Furthermore, despite his struggles this season, Kelce was still selected for this year’s Pro Bowl, largely due to overwhelming fan support, as he led all players in votes received.