A former NFL coach has stated that Travis Kelce’s decline is due to his offseason commitments, including his relationship with pop star Taylor Swift. Eric Mangini, the ex-coach of the Cleveland Browns, didn’t mince words as he critiqued Kelce’s 2024/25 preparation.
Speaking on the chat show Breakfast Ball, Mangini said, “It was filled with everything but football.” He pointed to a packed schedule of media appearances, international travel, and celebrity events that likely disrupted the tight end’s usual off-season routine.
“So, he’s got the budding romance, he’s on tour, he’s traveling overseas… Then he’s got the TV show… Then he’s got the podcast,” Mangini added. “He’s got so many things in a shortened season. You’re hoping guys decompress, not get away from football with 50 other things.”
The Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end has long dominated the NFL, earning a reputation as one of the league’s most consistent and dynamic playmakers. However, during the 2024/25 season, his performance noticeably declined, prompting fans, analysts, and even former coaches to question what had changed.
After finishing the season with just 823 receiving yards and three touchdowns, Travis Kelce’s decline is a sharp drop from his typical elite output. For a player known for multiple 1,000-yard seasons and postseason heroics, the decline raised eyebrows.
A Balancing Act
Kelce’s relationship with Swift catapulted him into global celebrity status. He attended international concerts, hosted TV shows, and expanded his podcast brand – all while remaining a central figure in pop culture headlines.
Mangini suggested that the added spotlight brought new pressures and distractions that may have affected Kelce’s physical and mental readiness. And for a position as demanding as tight end, even small lapses in preparation can lead to significant performance drops.
With the NFL world watching closely, Kelce now faces a pivotal moment. He’ll need to prove he can balance global fame with the intensity of professional football. A strong 2025/26 season would not only quiet critics but also cement his legacy among the league’s all-time greats.
But until then, questions about his focus – and how much off-field fame affects on-field greatness – are likely to linger.
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