Travis Kelce is living a life most can only dream of — dominating the NFL, making fans laugh on his hit podcast, and navigating the spotlight of a high-profile relationship. While his on-field presence as a Kansas City Chiefs tight end is legendary, Kelce’s life off the field is equally fascinating. Let’s dive deeper into his life.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift Are the NFL’s Power Couple
When the NFL meets global pop stardom, the result is a cultural phenomenon like “Swelce.” Kelce, Kansas City’s star tight end, and Taylor Swift, the global pop icon, have captured headlines for their high-profile careers and enviable relationship. Swift has been cheering him and Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium, being referred to as the team’s lucky charm.
Kelce’s relationship with Swift has turned him into a cultural icon. Since the couple went public in 2023, their pairing has captivated fans and media alike, earning them the moniker of “America’s royal couple.” Swift’s attendance at Kelce’s games elevated NFL viewership, with records set during multiple matchups, including the Chiefs-Bills playoff game, which became the most-watched NFL divisional playoff game ever.
Taylor Swift is ready for it 🔥 The NFL queen has arrived at the Kansas City Chiefs vs. Houston Texans game to cheer on BF Travis Kelce 🏈 pic.twitter.com/i8Hcdb7EzN
— Chicks in the Office (@ChicksInTheOff) January 18, 2025
The relationship’s impact isn’t confined to the field. A sports marketing firm estimated the Chiefs’ franchise value increased by $331.4 million in six months due to the Kelce-Swift effect. The duo’s influence culminated in Kelce joining Swift onstage during her “The Eras Tour” in London, where he danced during her performance of “I Can Do It with a Broken Heart.”
The Podcast That Took Off: New Heights
Teaming up with his brother Jason Kelce, Travis co-hosts the “New Heights” podcast, a sports show that blends humor and insider NFL stories. The show has become a fan favorite thanks to its unmatched humor and relatable storytelling. The show peaked when the duo inked a $100 million deal with Wondery, skyrocketing its reach and popularity.
Meet the Kelces: Donna, Ed, and Jason
Travis hails from a family of achievers. His mom, Donna Kelce, became a Super Bowl icon with her split jersey representing both sons. His dad, Ed Kelce, a steelworker, instilled a good work ethic in his boys. Jason, his older brother and retired Philadelphia Eagles star, shares the spotlight with his brother Travis and has been there for him as his guiding light since his college days at Cincinnati.
Travis Kelce reacts emotionally to Jason Kelce taking about their relationship #Eagles #Chiefs pic.twitter.com/VTfkWh5nvH
— John McMullen (@JFMcMullen) March 4, 2024
Kelce’s Hobbies Beyond Football
When Kelce isn’t catching passes or hosting podcasts, he’s indulging in hobbies like cars and real estate. He is also a golf enthusiast and has won the long drive contest at the 2023 American Century Championship. Additionally, he teamed up with Patrick Mahomes to defeat Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson in “The Match VII.”
Kelce’s Net Worth, Business Ventures, and More
Throughout his time with the Chiefs, Kelce has earned $93,943,975 from his NFL contracts alone.
Kelce has a net worth of $90 million, built on his NFL earnings, endorsements, and ventures like Casa Azul Reposado Tequila. The veteran’s business acumen matches his athleticism.
A prolific endorser, he’s been the face of brands like Nike, McDonald’s, Old Spice, and Campbell’s. His entrepreneurial spirit took flight in 2019 with the launch of Hilo Nutrition, a health brand specializing in performance gummy supplements. Shortly after, in 2020, Kelce introduced Tru Kolors, his clothing line, which became the first NFL player-owned brand to collaborate officially with an NFL franchise, the Chiefs.
Kelce’s ventures go beyond apparel and nutrition. He’s also a savvy investor, earning a four-times return on his stake in L Catterton’s acquisition of Cholula Hot Sauce when McCormick & Company bought the brand for $800 million in 2020.
In Oct. 2023, Kelce and Walmart unveiled a barbecue product line, Travis Kelce’s Kitchen, inspired by Kansas City flavors. This followed the success of his 2022 collaboration with Hy-Vee, which launched Kelce’s Krunch, a limited-edition cereal supporting his charitable foundation.
Beyond football and business, Kelce shines in other arenas. He continues to redefine what it means to be an athlete in the modern era, from behind a microphone to the football field and boardrooms.
