Travis Kelce recently commented on his Kansas City Chiefs teammate Harrison Butker’s divisive commencement speech at Benedictine College, a Catholic institution.
Earlier in the month, Butker spoke out against what he described as “diabolical lies told to women” regarding issues like abortion, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and surrogacy.
Notably, during his address, Butker also referenced lyrics from a song by Travis Kelce’s girlfriend, Taylor Swift, using them to underline a point about familiarity breeding contempt.
In a recent episode of the New Heights podcast with Jason and Travis Kelce, without specifically addressing Butker’s use of Swift’s lyrics, Travis expressed his appreciation for Butker as a teammate. Echoing quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ sentiments, Travis described Butker as a great person and teammate, known for treating everyone with respect and kindness.
Travis elaborated on his stance regarding Butker’s remarks, stating, “He’s treated friends and family that I’ve introduced to him with nothing but respect and kindness. And that’s how he treats everyone. When it comes down to his views and what he said at [Benedictine’s] commencement speech, those are his views,” he explained. “I can’t say I agree with the majority of it or just about any of it outside of just him loving his family and his kids. And I don’t think that I should judge him by his views, especially his religious views, of how to go about life, that’s just not who I am.”
Reflecting on his own upbringing in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, Travis spoke about the diverse environment that shaped him, emphasizing respect and acceptance for various beliefs without judgment. He credited his parents, Donna and Ed Kelce, for providing a loving and supportive home, which he considers crucial to his development.
Jason Kelce also weighed in on Butker’s speech, acknowledging that while he does not agree with many of Butker’s statements, he recognizes the context of the speech at a Catholic university and appreciates the emphasis on family values, though he clarified that not everyone must aspire to be a homemaker.
Following the backlash from Butker’s speech, the NFL distanced itself from his views. Jonathan Beane, NFL’s senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer, stated, “Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity.
His views are not those of the NFL as an organization.
The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger,” according to a statement.
