When Kansas City Chiefs’ star tight end Travis Kelce went public with pop star Taylor Swift last fall there were a lot of people with mixed emotions. Swift is one of the most famous people in the world. So, of course, her being linked to the NFL, would be great for the publicity of the league.
But some people feared that she could become a distraction to Kansas City. But Chiefs defensive back coach, Dave Merritt, said Swift had a positive impact on the team.
“She affected the team in a positive way. It wasn’t in a negative way. Everybody was excited and Travis was happy. So when my player, a brother, is happy beside me, that helps me and that encourages me and so Travis came in there a different man. So, she helped us,” Merritt said.
Chiefs Adopted Swift as ‘Family’ During Season
Swift and Kelce quickly became the hottest celebrity couple. But the new couple were not viewed as darlings by everyone. NFL fans, in particular, complained that too much time was being focused on Swift instead of the actual game being played.
Merritt said that the Chiefs were well aware of the disdain being aimed at Swift. As a result, the team adopted her as family.
“There were so many people that were hating the fact that she was being shown on the TV that, you know what? You’re part of our family because you’re now with Travis,” Merritt added.
“So, therefore, you’re our little sister…You’re part of our family.”
Jason Kelce Gives Insight on Taylor Swift
Travis’ brother Jason Kelce is the starting center for the Philadelphia Eagles. After the Eagles were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, Jason became a fixture at Chiefs games, supporting his brother. Naturally, he has become very familiar with Taylor over the past few months. But Jason said experiencing being around Swift at the Super Bowl, really put into perspective all of the things the pop star has to deal with.
“I think this was my first, really, understanding kind of some of the things she has to deal with on a lot of basis,” Jason said.
“There were so many star-studded people there. Everyone wants to come see her. The suite’s only so big. It was overwhelming, to be honest with you. I was going out of the suite to talk to Keegan-Michael Key, his wife, and a bunch of people. The celebrity attendance at the game was unreal.”