On Sunday morning, the NFL released an update on the Walter Payton Man of the Year fan voting, and unsurprisingly, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is leading the pack. Joining him in the top five are Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans, Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Dion Dawkins, Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Brandon Graham, and Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner.
Kelce’s position atop the leaderboard has sparked widespread chatter. While he’s had a strong season, it’s not one of his most dominant performances statistically. Many fans and analysts believe Kelce’s surge in popularity stems largely from his high-profile relationship with global superstar Taylor Swift and the unwavering support of her dedicated fanbase, known as the “Swifties.”
This theory has gained traction, particularly after Kelce was also named the No. 1 vote-getter in last week’s Pro Bowl fan voting. Fans have been quick to connect the dots, with many suggesting that Swift’s influence is reshaping NFL fan votes.
Fan Reactions
Social media was ablaze with comments pointing to the Swifties’ impact on Kelce’s popularity in the polls:
- “Mike Evans deserves this, not that Swiftie dude who’s been MIA all year,” one fan wrote.
- “Realistically, does anyone stand a chance against the Swifties?” asked another.
- “Why let Swifties vote? This isn’t the ‘Eras Tour Man of the Year’ award,” another fan quipped.
- “There’s literally no point in voting for anything involving Travis Kelce anymore. The Swifties will outvote everyone to make sure he wins,” added another.
Despite the playful criticism, Kelce’s philanthropic efforts are nothing short of extraordinary, making him a worthy contender for the prestigious award.
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The 87 & Running Campaign
Kelce’s community work is rooted in a vision he set into motion four years ago when he purchased a vacant muffler shop and transformed it into an educational hub called the “Ignition Lab” as part of his 87 & Running foundation. The facility, located at Operation Breakthrough in Kansas City, serves as an incubator for inner-city students, equipping them with career experience, life skills, and industry knowledge.
The results speak volumes. The first class of Ignition Lab students is now set to graduate high school with valuable work experience, improved academic performance, internships, and newfound hope for their futures. Since its inception, the program has expanded by 350%, now serving students from seven urban-area high schools.
Kelce’s commitment extends beyond finances—he dedicates his time, energy, and resources to ensure the program’s success. His foundation has become a beacon of opportunity for underserved youth, providing them with a platform to excel academically and professionally.
A Deserving Candidate
While the Swifties’ involvement in boosting Kelce’s visibility is undeniable, his impact off the field justifies his standing in the Walter Payton Man of the Year race. His 87 & Running initiative has become a cornerstone of community enrichment, earning him admiration both within and beyond the NFL.
As the voting continues, fans may debate the influence of Kelce’s pop culture connection, but his dedication to making a difference in the lives of young people is indisputable.
Whether it’s the Swifties’ enthusiasm or Kelce’s genuine efforts, he remains a top contender for one of the NFL’s most prestigious honors.
