Travis Kelce reveals how Taylor Swift romance has really impacted his NFL game after ‘distraction’ criticism

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce opened up on how his ongoing romance with pop superstar Taylor Swift has improved his game in his 12th NFL season.

In a year where Kelce has struggled to return to his old form, the tight end says that he’s happier than ever – despite immense criticism surrounding him. That includes plenty of scrutiny about his relationship, which some have branded a distraction with the potential to ‘harm’ his career.

Speaking to Stephen A. Smith on his podcast, the ten-time Pro-Bowler revealed that he’s in a good place.

‘I’m enjoying all aspects of life,’ Kelce told the longtime host of ESPN’s morning show ‘First Take’.

‘Me and Taylor are happy and I couldn’t be happier to enjoy that comfort and confidence off the field and all the support I could ever ask for at the stadium, man.’

Kelce also said that the support he gets from Swift is a two-way street, and that he works hard to make sure she feels that he is there for her.

‘Well, I think personally, that’s the beauty of being in a very strong relationship is that you get that support to be able to come in and focus on your craft, focus on being the best version of you,’ Kelce said.

‘That’s why I wanted to be at the concert, supporting her and being there for her, making sure she feels comfortable and supportive and everything she’s doing in life.

‘I think I’m as focused as I’ve ever been on my job and being the best player that I could possibly be week in, week out for this team. It’s because I don’t have to worry about things off the field.’

Kelce had a slow start to the campaign and it ended with one of his lowest production seasons in his career.

The 823 receiving yards he put up and the three touchdown catches he had were both the lowest he’s ever had since his rookie campaign.

It was this rocky start that led many NFL analysts to suggest that the 35-year old might be better off calling it a career after this season.

Other analysts blamed Kelce’s partying over the offseason, suggesting that the tight end’s jet-setting lifestyle was responsible for his slump.

But Kelce is known for his success in the playoffs and has the chance to erase the early-season narratives when the Chiefs host the Houston Texans on Saturday.