Tight end Travis Kelce and his fiancée, Taylor Swift, both had big weeks. While Swift released the third single, “Elizabeth Taylor,” off her record-breaking “The Life of a Showgirl” album, Kelce announced he’s officially returning to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Kelce signed a one-year, $12 million deal with a max value of $15 million. His return, however, isn’t fueled by money. He’s got ample opportunities to make even more off the field, but he still loves playing the game.
The 11-time Pro Bowler said Swift helped inspire his return. “We share the same love for what we do, and fortunately, we’ve had this desire since we were kids in our selective professions,” Kelce revealed on The Pat McAfee Show.
“It’s amazing to see her keep going to the table, keep finding new things to write about, keep finding new melodies and, on top of that, still seeing her have that love and joy in what she does.”
GettyTaylor Swift performs during the ‘Eras Tour.’
With Kelce playing his 14th season in the NFL, the window for the famous couple’s upcoming nuptials became quite small. ESPN’s Nate Taylor reported they plan to wed before training camp starts, which is at the end of July.
In the meantime, the pop star and Kelce have stayed out of the public eye. But with the Academy Awards coming up this weekend, however, the soon-to-be newlyweds could be making a joint public appearance.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Were Spotted in Los Angeles Ahead of the Oscars: Report
DeuxMoi reported on March 13 that the “Opalite” singer and Kelce returned to one of their favorite haunts in Los Angeles, Bird Streets. They were spotted at the private club along with Swift’s parents.
With Swift and Kelce dining in West Hollywood, fans can’t help but speculate if they plan on making an appearance at the 98th Academy Awards on March 15. While attending the ceremony or walking the red carpet seems unlikely, Swift and Kelce could be planning to attend the afterparties.
Two years ago, the 14-time Grammy winner and the Chiefs star stepped out for Gucci’s official afterparty. Known as “The Party,” the event was held at talent manager Guy Oseary’s home.
“They were on the patio and in great moods,” a party guest told People at the time. “She had a very happy, giant smile. He was protective of her and she was delightful and glowing — they seemed very happy together and loving the night.”
Travis Kelce Knew He Wanted to Return for Another Year Midseason
GettyChiefs tight end Travis Kelce prepares for his return to play in 2026.
While Chiefs Kingdom waited months for Kelce to announce his decision, the four-time First-Team All-Pro realized he couldn’t yet retire “about midway through the season,” Kelce said on his “New Heights” podcast.
“I’ve made decisions based off of emotions, and, you know, they haven’t always played out the right way,” he continued.
“So I think taking a step back, letting the emotions settle down. The frustrations from the season, of course, I want to come back. Of course, I don’t want to end my career not making the playoffs, not having one of the best years, and definitely having a down year and all that. So I think taking a step back and letting it kind of build and, you know, what’s my desire? What’s my body feel like?
“How did I feel going into this year versus coming out of this year, and where my body was at. And even letting it kind of settle, it still felt like I was hungry enough to get back at it… I hated the way that (stuff) ended last year. And I want to do this. I want to make it right. And I want to get another chance at another Super Bowl.”
Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce Spotted Together Before Oscar Weekend: Report