Travis Kelce is gearing up for a unique challenge as the Kansas City Chiefs kick off their season in Brazil against the Los Angeles Chargers, and let’s just say he isn’t exactly thrilled about the idea. During a recent episode of the “New Heights” podcast, which he recorded on Monday, Kelce initially touched on the international matchup as if it were just a rumor. But after realizing the full NFL schedule would drop on Wednesday, he quickly confirmed the news with his signature flair.
“I’ll be there, not to do a podcast. I’ll be playing football in the f***ing heat,” Kelce said, making it clear he’s not too keen on battling the elements.
His older brother, Jason, who had firsthand experience playing in Brazil last season with the Philadelphia Eagles, provided a dose of reality by recalling the “atrocious” field conditions during their game against the Green Bay Packers. Kelce couldn’t help but rib Jason about the Eagles’ success, reflecting on his own Super Bowl loss to that very team.
“I’ll tell you what, they were not slipping in New Orleans. I was slipping in New Orleans,” he quipped.
As the conversation unfolded, Kelce made it clear he wasn’t looking forward to the humid Brazilian climate. “There’s just something about getting close to the equator, I don’t want to put on a football uniform. I’ve been in Jacksonville in September, that’s f***ing miserable.” With a hint of humor mixed with genuine concern, he pondered whether São Paulo, a city close to the coastal area, could offer any respite from the sticky heat. “If it is humid, I am going to be miserable. But I am going to find a way to get a win.”
Not one to miss a chance to tease his brother, Jason responded with a smile, “Well, prepare to be miserable. You’re surrounded by the Amazon rainforest.”
Kelce foresaw a sweaty situation for himself, joking about the need for extra gear, saying, “I am going to have to ask the equipment guys for a couple jerseys, maybe three pairs of pants. Maybe four cleats; I might just go through a pair.” He wasn’t done there; he even consulted Jason about socks, underscoring the reality of soggy footwear in such conditions.
The NFL unveiled its overseas schedule recently, which has heightened excitement for these games, and the anticipation is building for the Chiefs’ groundbreaking move to start the season in South America. Additionally, the club will also host the Dallas Cowboys in Texas on Thanksgiving, a game that carries its own weight, especially with Patrick Mahomes facing his childhood team. Coupling that with a game on Christmas against the Denver Broncos, and it looks like an eventful holiday season for Kelce and company.
This year also has a special personal twist for Kelce, as he could be hitting the field on his 36th birthday, which falls on Sunday, October 5. With the stakes high and the calendar packed, Kelce remains determined to lead the Chiefs back to the Super Bowl, even if it requires navigating the challenges of an international opener. A new chapter is unfolding, and it’s bound to be a memorable one for the Chiefs’ star tight end.
