In recent months, there has been a noticeable surge in attention surrounding the NFL, specifically linked to the presence of Taylor Swift, girlfriend of Travis Kelce, at the Kansas City Chiefs game on September 24 against the Bears at Arrowhead Stadium. This has led to some frustration among NFL fans who feel there is an excessive focus on Swift.
However, the impact of Taylor Swift’s association with the NFL has been huge. According to research conducted by Apex Marketing Group, her connection with the league has contributed approximately $330 million in brand value to both the Chiefs and the NFL as a whole.
The influence extends beyond monetary value. Travis Kelce’s jersey sales have experienced a remarkable surge, increasing by nearly 400% since Swift attended the Chiefs game to support him. Furthermore, Swift’s presence has led to notable spikes in female viewership, including a 53% rise among those aged 12-17, a 34% increase in those over 35, and a 24% uptick in the 18-24 demographic.
Now, Eagles veteran and Travis Kelce’s older brother Jason Kelce has a message for the naysayers.
He mentions that the attention is warranted because the audience demands it.
According to Jason, Taylor Swift is a global icon, an immensely talented singer-songwriter, and a role model for young women worldwide. He suggests that the NFL would be unwise not to showcase her and be an inspiration for young girls.
“I think that the NFL would probably be foolish not to show her and be a role model for all the young girls out there,” said Jason on Cincinnati’s WCPO-TV during Pro Bowl festivities.
"The NFL would be foolish not to show (Taylor Swift)."
Jason Kelce was asked about the NFL's attention toward Taylor Swift (his brother's girlfriend) this season.
"(She is) an unbelievable role model for young women across the globe."@WCPO pic.twitter.com/NBhRwuPiGv
— Caleb Noe (@CalebNoeTV) February 3, 2024
As of January 27, 2024, Taylor Swift has attended 11 NFL games since September 2023, receiving extensive hype.
Despite the attention, Swift herself remains seemingly unaware of the criticism, stating in a December 2023 interview with Time Magazine that she is not concerned about potentially upsetting a few “dads, Brads, and Chads”.
Next, all eyes are on the Super Bowl on February 12 as the Chiefs will face the 49ers after four years.
While Taylor Swift’s appearance at Super Bowl LVIII is not confirmed, there are expectations that she may be present in Las Vegas after completing her Eras Tour show in Japan.
