Whether NFL players like it or not, Taylor Swift has become an unexpected focal point in the league’s media coverage over the past year. Already a global superstar before her relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, Swift’s presence has brought even more attention to the NFL.
Since the two started dating, networks like CBS, FOX, and NBC have made a point to feature the Grammy-winning artist on camera every time she attends one of Kelce’s games. Fans of Swift are thrilled to see her on “Sunday Night Football” and other broadcasts, while those less interested in her music—and her presence—aren’t so enthusiastic, feeling that her appearances sometimes overshadow the action on the field.
But how do NFL players themselves feel about Swift’s growing visibility in the league? The Athletic conducted an anonymous poll to get their opinions, and the results might surprise some.
A significant 72.5 percent of players believe that Swift attending NFL games is a positive thing for the league. This majority view aligns with the idea that Swift’s star power is bringing more attention—and potential new fans—to the NFL, something players recognize as beneficial to the business side of the sport.
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What’s more, only a small portion of players, 4.9 percent, are against Swift attending games, indicating that most either don’t mind or actively appreciate her presence. The remaining players expressed indifference, making it clear that, for the majority, Swift’s attendance isn’t a big deal one way or another.
One anonymous player in support of Swift’s impact told The Athletic, “I think it’s been positive for the league. At the end of the day, it’s a business, and you need to get as many eyes on it as possible. And she brings a lot of eyes, so if that increases the salary cap, I don’t think anybody’s gonna be too mad about that one.”
However, not every player is thrilled with the extra attention Swift receives. Another player shared a different perspective, saying, “I feel like she is getting unnecessary coverage. There was the whole NFL opening season video on Twitter, and she was featured five times while our quarterback was featured none. That’s not even right. She is not the NFL.”
This sentiment highlights a growing frustration for some players who feel that Swift’s media coverage is stealing the spotlight from the actual game and its athletes.
Despite this, the overwhelming majority seem to recognize that Swift’s presence is, on balance, good for the league’s visibility and potential revenue.
For better or worse, Taylor Swift’s connection to the NFL, particularly through her relationship with Kelce, isn’t fading anytime soon. As one of the biggest global icons, her involvement is likely to continue drawing eyes to the NFL, and for most players, that’s just another part of the game.
Those who aren’t fans of the additional coverage will simply have to adjust, as Swift’s presence at Chiefs games, for now, is here to stay.
