Travis Kelce is off to an unusually slow start in the 2024 NFL season, raising questions about whether his recent relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift is affecting his performance. Through the first three games, Kelce has just eight catches for 69 yards, including a modest four receptions for 30 yards in the Kansas City Chiefs’ 22-17 win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night.
Given Kelce’s status as one of the most dominant tight ends in NFL history, his lower production has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike.
At 34, Kelce is entering the latter stages of his career, but some speculate that it’s not just age slowing him down. Instead, they point to his high-profile relationship with Swift, which saw Kelce jet-setting around the globe with the singer during the offseason. The two have been spotted together frequently, with Kelce attending events like the U.S. Open and socializing with Swift’s A-list circle.
Former ESPN analyst Todd McShay didn’t shy away from making the connection between Kelce’s offseason activities and his slow start on the field.
“Every show I watch, every pregame show, halftime show, postgame show, weekday show, every broadcast I watch for the last few weeks, it’s like, are we not allowed to say that he’s out of shape?” McShay remarked. “He’s been partying all offseason, jet-setting around with the most famous person, probably in the entire world. That he’s drinking, going to the U.S. Open, he’s got cocktails in hand. Is anyone allowed to question if this is affecting him?”
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However, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid firmly dismissed the notion that Kelce’s relationship with Swift is to blame for his on-field struggles. Reid, known for his no-nonsense approach, defended his star tight end during a recent press conference.
“I know people are saying that he’s old or that he has distractions, but defenses don’t think that,” Reid said, per Charles Goodman of A to Z Sports. “Trav is fine. He just keeps being Trav. He works his tail off. He hasn’t lost a step. He’s not distracted. (Some of these defenses) are making sure he’s taken care of.”
Kelce himself addressed the speculation on his New Heights podcast, co-hosted with his brother, Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce. He made it clear that his focus remains on winning games, not on personal accolades.
“I’ve had a lot of catches in this league, man. I’m not worried about the catches and the yards and all of that,” Kelce said. “I have the most fun when I get the ball thrown my way, I mean, who doesn’t? But it has everything to do with execution and just making sure we’re doing everything we can to win these football games. That’s always going to be the goal.”
Despite Kelce’s reduced numbers, the Chiefs are 3-0, and the team’s offensive rhythm appears to be improving as the season progresses. Kelce’s reduced stats may have more to do with opposing defenses zeroing in on him, as he remains a primary target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Reid pointed out that teams are adjusting their game plans specifically to contain Kelce, limiting his production while allowing other receivers to step up.
As the Chiefs continue their quest for a third straight Super Bowl appearance, Kelce’s role will inevitably be crucial. While Kansas City is off to a strong start, they will likely need Kelce to return to his dominant form in key games down the stretch. Whether or not Swift is a factor, both Kelce and Reid seem confident that his performance will bounce back as the season progresses.
In the meantime, it seems Kelce is taking the attention—both on and off the field—in stride, maintaining his focus on what really matters: winning football games and helping his team reach the ultimate goal of another Super Bowl title.
