Travis Kelce is a changed man according to Dave Merritt, the Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive back coach and the reason for it is none other than the talented Taylor Swift. Kelce has been in a relationship with the Eras Tour singer since September 2023 and the pair have become one of the United States’ most iconic couples with the paparazzi frequently chasing after them.
That’s just one of the many changes that has come with the tight end’s newfound fame and prestige via his romantic association with the 34-year-old, but she has also had a profound effect on his personality too.
“She [Swift] actually affected the team in a positive way,” Merritt said to The Sports Shop Podcast with Reese & K-Mac. “It wasn’t a negative way. Everybody was excited and Travis was happy. “So when my player, a brother, is happy beside me, that helps me and that encourages me and so Travis came in there a different man. So, she helped us.”
Swift’s appearances are a benefit
The 52-year-old also added that Swift is a net benefit to the squad, contrary to the belief of some pundits that she negatively impacts the Chiefs’ who won the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers. Some people claimed that she served as a distraction for the team and Kelce, who struggled for form in the latter half of the season before managing to get it together in time for the playoffs.
She, according to the coach, also privately attended Chiefs events without anyone realizing she was there until the media crews started focusing the cameras on her, indicating her aim to avoid drama. “There were so many people that were hating the fact that she was being shown on the TV,” Merritt added. “You know what? You’re [Swift] part of our family because you’re now with Travis.” He continued speaking to the singer, although she wasn’t present: “So, therefore, you’re our little sister…You’re part of our family.”
