Chiefs coach suggests Taylor Swift has sparked Travis Kelce's performance in first two weeks of season
Travis Kelce Returns to 100‑Yard Form as Chiefs Beat Colts in Overtime
Kansas City, Mo. – In a game that stretched into overtime, the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Indianapolis Colts 33‑30 to open their season at 2‑0. Tight end Travis Kel — a 36‑year‑old who had been the subject of speculation about a decline in speed and agility since his 26‑year‑old peak – posted a career‑level performance, catching nine passes for 101 yards and a touchdown. It was the first time he surpassed the 100‑yard mark in a regular‑season game since a November 4, 2024 outing against the Houston Texans.
Kel — the former 2024 Pro Bowl star — also recorded 117 yards against the Texans in the playoff contest on January 18, 2025. Those figures bookend his most recent 100‑yard performances, underscoring a return to elite production.
The game took place at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday night. After a hard‑fought first half that left both teams tied, the Chiefs’ defense forced a Colts turnover in the third quarter, giving Kansas City the ball with just over a minute remaining. Kel — his 101 yards and one touchdown accounted for a substantial portion of the offense’s 20 points in the final 12 minutes – helped the Chiefs secure the win in overtime.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said the veteran tight end’s work ethic was a decisive factor. “Trav worked his tail off,” Reid told reporters Monday. “That’s the bottom line, and I think he probably said it after the game somewhere. The amount of work he put in.” Reid added that Kel — who has focused on body strength, glutes, and overall explosiveness in the offseason — maintained a high level of power and speed that proved vital in the late‑game drive.
Reid also hinted at the added motivation that his off‑the‑field life could provide. “He likes his surrounding cast… that’s around him too, which sure helps as just an extra challenge there to make sure that you're up there and competing and doing your part with that other group,” he said. “I know… everybody questioned with the wedding and all that. Would he be out of shape and honeymooning the whole time? But he works his rear end off… I’m sure she kicks him in the butt a little bit there, too.”
The remark refers to the high‑profile marriage of Kel — to pop‑icon Taylor Swift—announced in late 2023. Swift attended both Chiefs games in 2023, and she was present on Sunday night. When Kel — scored a touchdown in the third quarter, Swift flashed her wedding ring to the crowd and exhaled a jubilant “That’s my husband.” Her support, whether literal or symbolic, has drawn commentary from fans and media alike.
The Chiefs’ 33‑30 win over the Colts propels them to a 2‑0 start, putting them in a strong position as the season progresses. Kel — his 101 yards and touchdown represent a crucial contribution to the team’s offensive momentum, while the comments from Reid suggest that the player’s personal life may also be a motivating factor on the field.
Key Stats
- Travis Kel — 9 receptions, 101 yards, 1 touchdown
- Game Result: Chiefs 33, Colts 30 (OT)
- Season Record: Chiefs 2‑0
The Chiefs look to keep the momentum as they prepare to face the next opponent in the AFC West.
