Is there a new tight end vying for Taylor Swift’s attention? This playful question sparked laughs after Washington Commanders rookie tight end Ben Sinnott, 22, scored his first NFL touchdown on October 20 during a game against the Carolina Panthers—on a play humorously named after the pop icon herself.
The touchdown, part of the Commanders’ dominant 40-7 victory, came through a play fittingly called “Taylor Swift.”
The backstory was revealed by Commanders’ offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, who shared the unique touchdown moment while speaking to reporters on October 24. “His first catch was a touchdown, and the play was called ‘Taylor Swift,’ so you can’t really beat that to start your NFL scoring career,” Kingsbury said with a grin, adding that Sinnott was “stoked” to have his debut touchdown marked by such a memorable call.
Kingsbury went on to reveal that the team’s playbook includes “a bunch” of plays named after other pop stars, hinting that these playful names have become an inside joke among the team.
As for why the play was dubbed “Taylor Swift,” Kingsbury jokingly told reporters to ask the tight ends, playfully suggesting, “He [Sinnott] must like Taylor Swift on a deeper level.” Later, Sinnott took questions from the press, adding more lighthearted commentary about the team’s Taylor-inspired touchdown.
“The tight end room is just a bunch of guys who like Taylor Swift,” Sinnott laughed, explaining that naming the play had been a fun, group decision. “It’s one I won’t ever forget. So it’s pretty funny,” he added.
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Reflecting on the moment, Sinnott recalled the excitement he felt when he heard the play call on the field. “My heart kind of started pounding when I heard it,” he shared, “but I was excited and took advantage of it.”
The rookie joked that they might have to rename the play given its sudden popularity, but he’s eager for “any opportunity” to get on the field and make more memorable plays.
When asked about his Swiftie status, Sinnott admitted that his fiancée is “a huge Taylor Swift fan,” which has made him a regular listener as well. Among their favorite tracks? “Our Song” and “august” are frequently on repeat.
While Sinnott’s touchdown has added some Swift-inspired charm to his rookie season, fans couldn’t help but chuckle at the idea of Travis Kelce facing some light-hearted “competition” for Swift’s attention.
For now, though, Sinnott’s touchdown on the “Taylor Swift” play is a memory that’s likely to stay with him—and fans of both football and pop culture—for a long time.
