'Wanted him to go out on a high note' : How Taylor Swift Influenced Travis Kelce’s Decision to Delay Retirement from the NFL

Taylor Swift played a pivotal role in Travis Kelce’s decision to continue his NFL career after contemplating retirement.

Profile

SportsTak Desk

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift in the frame

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift in the frame

Highlights:

As Kelce gears up for the 2025-2026 NFL season, sources confirmed that Swift will “of course” be back in the stands cheering him on.

On February 27, Kelce finally announced his decision during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.

Taylor Swift played a pivotal role in Travis Kelce’s decision to continue his NFL career after contemplating retirement. Sources close to the couple revealed to Page Six that the Grammy-winning artist and the Kansas City Chiefs tight end “definitely discussed” the life-altering decision “as a couple.”  

An insider disclosed, “She didn’t want Travis to retire. She wanted him to go out on a high note.” Following the Chiefs’ crushing 40-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 2025 at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Kelce was left reflecting on his future. Swift, however, encouraged him to give it another shot and aim for a better ending.  

A Tough Loss and Reflection  
 

Kelce had expressed his disappointment after the Super Bowl loss during an episode of his “New Heights” podcast in February. “Just wasn’t our day. Couldn’t find a lick of momentum,” he admitted. “I’m kicking myself for some of the tiny, tiny decisions I made on the field.”  

 

Although Swift’s opinion was a significant factor, the final decision rested with Kelce. A source close to the athlete explained, “He has to be able to physically do it. It’s up to him to feel confident that his body can handle another full season without risking injury.”  

 

 

Kelce Announces His Return  
On February 27, Kelce finally announced his decision during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on ESPN. He confirmed via a text message read aloud on the show, “I’m coming back, for sure.”  

Determined to make amends for his performance in the Super Bowl, Kelce added, “Gonna try and get to the best shape I’ve been this offseason and get back to the mountaintop. Got a real bad taste in my mouth with how I played in that last game and how I got the guys ready for battle. I can’t go out like that!”  

 

 

Swift’s Support and Continued Presence  
 

Swift, 35, was reportedly “happy [with his decision]” to continue playing. A source confirmed, “She has been fully encouraging him to keep chasing these dreams.” Kelce acknowledged her unwavering support during an appearance on The Stephen A. Smith Show in January, stating, “I got all the support in the world to keep chasing these dreams.”  

 

 

As Kelce gears up for the 2025-2026 NFL season, sources confirmed that Swift will “of course” be back in the stands cheering him on. She plans to attend as many of his games as possible, maintaining her strong presence in his corner.  
 

    Share