In a move that’s set to blend pop culture with NFL spectacle, rumors are swirling that Taylor Swift, global music superstar and devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan, may take the field to perform the national anthem at a Chiefs game in the 2025 season. The catalyst behind this jaw-dropping possibility? None other than Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, whose reported personal request to the NFL has sparked a frenzy among fans. According to sources close to the team, the NFL has given the green light, potentially setting the stage for an unforgettable moment at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. But what drove Kelce to make such a bold ask, and how are fans reacting to the idea of Swift stepping into the spotlight in this new way?
The story began to gain traction during the Chiefs’ 2025 training camp at Missouri Western State University, where Kelce’s relationship with Swift has already been a hot topic. On July 22, 2025, the team made headlines when Patrick Mahomes led a viral chant about Kelce and Swift, dubbing them a “power couple.” This lighthearted moment underscored the team’s embrace of the high-profile romance, which has captivated audiences since it went public in September 2023. Now, it appears Kelce has taken things a step further, reportedly pitching the idea of Swift performing the national anthem to NFL officials. A report from the Kansas City Star on May 20, 2025, noted that NFL Vice President of Broadcast Operations Mike North hinted at Swift singing for the Chiefs’ Thanksgiving game against the Dallas Cowboys, a matchup expected to shatter TV viewership records.
Sources suggest Kelce’s request was motivated by a desire to celebrate Swift’s unwavering support for the Chiefs. Since their relationship began, Swift has attended over 20 Chiefs games, often cheering alongside Kelce’s mother, Donna, and Brittany Mahomes. She’s become a fixture at Arrowhead, even adopting the Chiefs’ unique tradition of singing “Home of the Chiefs!” at the end of the national anthem. Kelce, a three-time Super Bowl champion, reportedly saw Swift performing the anthem as a way to honor her connection to the team and its fans, while also creating a historic moment for the NFL. “Travis knows how much Taylor loves the game and the fans,” an insider shared. “He thought this would be a perfect way to bring her into the Chiefs’ world in a bigger way.”
The NFL’s approval, though not officially confirmed, aligns with the league’s push to capitalize on Swift’s massive influence. Her appearances at games have boosted viewership, with the 2023 season seeing a surge in new fans, particularly Swifties, tuning in to catch glimpses of her in the stands. The Thanksgiving game, pitting the Chiefs against the Cowboys—two of the NFL’s most-watched teams—offers a prime opportunity to maximize this effect. “It’s a no-brainer,” said a league source. “Taylor singing the anthem could make this the most-viewed regular-season game ever.” The NFL’s openness to Swift’s involvement also reflects her growing integration into the sport, with Kelce confirming in 2024 that she’s even drawn up plays for the team, though none have been used by head coach Andy Reid.
Fan reactions have been a mix of excitement and skepticism. Swifties are over the moon, flooding X with posts like, “Taylor singing the national anthem at a Chiefs game? I’m already crying!” and “This is the ultimate Tayvis moment we didn’t know we needed!” Many praised Kelce for championing his girlfriend’s talents, with one fan writing, “Travis knows Taylor’s a queen, and he’s making sure the NFL knows it too!” Chiefs fans, already accustomed to Swift’s presence, are thrilled at the prospect of her taking center stage. “She’s one of us now,” a season ticket holder commented. “Hearing her sing ‘Home of the Chiefs’ live would be insane.” However, some traditional NFL fans expressed concern, arguing that the focus should remain on football. “It’s a game, not a concert,” one X user posted, though such sentiments were quickly overshadowed by the enthusiasm.
The logistics of Swift’s performance remain unclear, as her schedule is packed with preparations for future music projects following the conclusion of her Eras Tour in December 2024. Still, her open schedule in early September, before her next tour leg in October, makes the Chiefs’ season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil a possible candidate, though the Thanksgiving game remains the frontrunner. If Swift does perform, expect a tailored rendition, with fans speculating she’ll incorporate the Chiefs’ signature “Home of the Chiefs!” twist, a nod to her adopted fandom.
This bold move by Kelce and the NFL underscores the unique intersection of sports and pop culture that their relationship represents. From Swift’s custom Kelce jackets to her on-field celebrations after Chiefs victories, she’s become more than just a supportive girlfriend—she’s a cultural force in the NFL.
