Is Taylor Swift to blame for Travis Kelce’s “poor performance” on the field?
On “The Ryen Russillo Podcast,” football pundit Todd McShay pointed out that Kelce’s poor performance early in the NFL season could be due to his new lavish lifestyle following his relationship with Swift.
McShay, who is known for closely tracking college football prospects who move on to the professional level, emphasized the impact Kelce’s off-field distractions had on his on-field performance.
Football pundits have been digging into Kelce’s poor performance early in the season, speculating on factors that could have caused a change in his impact on the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense.
McShay asked, according to Page Six, “Aren’t we allowed to say he’s out of form?”
“That he’s partying all season? That he’s hanging out with probably the most famous person in the world? That he’s drinking… going to the US Open and having cocktails?”
Russillo alluded to the delicate balance between relaxing after the season and focusing on football duties.
In comparison, McShay highlighted the physical evolution of the edge rusher between the 2022 preseason and 2024, showing a remarkable change that has left him almost unrecognizable.
Former ESPN talent Todd McShay is criticizing Travis Kelce for his slow start to the season, claiming he’s out of form and implying he’s not focused enough on football.
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— Starcade Media (@StarcadeMediaKC) September 24, 2024
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McShay noted that Kelce’s ability to overcome defensive challenges remains consistent, contributing to his All-Pro and Pro Bowl recognition. Highlighting the edge rusher’s athleticism as a distinguishing factor, McShay stated, “The respect he gets from defenses remains the same. But the athlete doesn’t. Does he train himself to get in shape during the season? Absolutely. He’s an incredible competitor and one of the best to ever do it.”
According to McShay’s analysis, Kelce’s physical condition will likely improve between Weeks 8 and 10. This season, Swift’s boyfriend has just eight receptions for 69 yards and no touchdowns in the first three games.
Meanwhile, amid Kelce’s reportedly uncharacteristically slow start to the NFL season, the athlete’s mother Donna Kelce has remained supportive of him, even as some fans have criticized his girlfriend for his performance.
In a recent statement, Donna expressed her concerns about the constant negative criticism directed at her son, while acknowledging the challenges of dealing with such criticism.
“You know, I don’t think they realize the pressure that people are under, whether they’re athletes or professionals in front of the camera. And it’s really hard, there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes,” she told People magazine.
“You don’t know how many times people are trying to stop you from catching the ball, or trying to trip you or hit you… so it’s tough having people in front of you 24/7.”
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Tags Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce