In a lively exchange on the Howard Stern Show, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith found himself in a spirited debate with radio legend Howard Stern over the future prospects of Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.
During the interview, Stern suggested that Kelce’s relevance and popularity could hinge on his relationship with global pop sensation Taylor Swift.
“He likely has to marry Taylor Swift if he wants to remain relevant and popular,” Stern said.
Howard Stern thinks Travis Kelce "has to" marry girlfriend Taylor Swift for his career, but Stephen A. Smith made it clear that he thinks the NFL star has a bright future regardless. https://t.co/1QOnzJO6PM
— Us Weekly (@usweekly) January 24, 2024
Stephen A. vehemently disagreed, asserting that Kelce has a multitude of factors going for him besides just Swift.
“He is a two-time Super Bowl champion, he’s on the verge of potentially being a three-time Super Bowl champion. He’s universally recognized as one of the greatest tight ends in the history of football,” he said.
“He is a good looking dude, got style, got flair. He’s got skills. He’s got a future in [the media] once he retires from football,”
Stephen A. went on to call Kelce “the total package.”
Indeed, Kelce’s on-field achievements speak volumes – nine straight Pro Bowls, two Super Bowl titles, and seven All-Pro selections….and counting.
Taylor cheering on the Chiefs after Travis scored a second touchdown!
HUGE congrats to Chiefs on their win! 🏈
Travis Kelce's suite is LIT#TaylorSwift #ChiefsKingdom #TravisKelce pic.twitter.com/3UnRVq1jBQ
— Travel & Adventures (@AllinderLi81282) January 22, 2024
However, Stephen A. didn’t stop there, highlighting Kelce’s off-field ventures, including his wildly successful New Heights Podcast, as evidence that the tight end has the potential for a thriving career beyond football.
In the same way Taylor Swift was getting blamed for Travis Kelce having a rough few games, will she get the praise for him having a great game?
Of course she won't.
Typical.
I've got your back Swifties x pic.twitter.com/cVTDX6NIk9
— The Pieman (@massie1903) January 22, 2024
Swift doesn’t hurt his popularity however – That goes without saying.
There are rumors that the couple plan to get married in the offseason…
Travis Kelce is making sure Taylor Swift feels "as comfortable as possible at his home" as the pair "try to spend as much time as they can together."
A source tells ET, "They have discussed their future as a couple and are excited about the idea of it." pic.twitter.com/gvXCvevGLk
— Entertainment Tonight (@etnow) January 22, 2024
Whose side are you on – Stern’s or Stephen A’s?
Taking a step back, are you getting a little sick and tired of Kelce and Swift?
Or are you one of those people who can’t get enough???
Whatcha thinking about, Trav???
Travis Kelce: Oh nothing, just thinking about beating the a**es of everyone who posted those Taylor ai pics….
Protect Taylor Swift pic.twitter.com/D0L2BMtQp4— Da🦦Otterside (@DaOtterside) January 26, 2024