How Taylor Swift's Eras Tour Influenced the NFL's 2024-25 Season Schedule

Why the NFL Considered Taylor Swift Eras Tour While Planning New Schedule

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

The NFL considered Taylor Swift's Eras Tour when planning their upcoming schedule, but not for the reasons fans may have thought. Speculation about the impact of Swift's tour and her relationship with Travis Kelce on the NFL arose after MLFootball reported on May 16 that NFL VP of Broadcast Planning Mike North stated that the NFL took Swift's concert schedule into consideration when creating the 2024 schedule.

Sports reporter Pete Sweeney pointed out that there may be more context to North's statement. He tweeted on Thursday after attending North's announcement, clarifying that North was referring to certain stadiums where Swift is holding concerts, such as Miami. This has nothing to do with the Chiefs.

ESPN featured North's full statement regarding Swift's tour. North mentioned that they considered the tour dates that coincide with NFL stadiums, like Miami, New Orleans, and Indy. However, they did not take into account the conspiracy theories about a game in Kansas City during Taylor's concert in Toronto. That scenario was not on their radar at all.

Taylor Swift, who is 34 years old, is expected to be able to attend the Kansas City Chiefs’ first game in September. She also has availability for appearances later in September and throughout October. Additionally, most dates in November and December do not conflict with Swift's tour schedule.

Since going public with her relationship with Kelce, who is also 34 years old, in September 2023, Swift has become a familiar face at football games. The NFL has taken advantage of this by using her music in promotional videos and frequently featuring her on camera during broadcasts of various Kansas City Chiefs games.

Why the NFL Considered Taylor Swift Eras Tour While Planning New Schedule 2

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Travis’ brother, Jason Kelce, believes that the reason there is so much coverage around Taylor Swift is because there is a high demand for it.

Jason, 36, explained to ABC affiliate WCPO 9 in February that the attention on Taylor Swift is driven by the audience's desire to see her. He emphasized that she is a global superstar, an incredibly talented singer-songwriter, and a fantastic role model for young women worldwide.

Jason said it would be “foolish” of the NFL “not to show” Swift cheering for Travis considering the interest around their relationship.

Why the NFL Considered Taylor Swift Eras Tour While Planning New Schedule 3

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell commented on the relationship between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce during an interview with CBS in November 2023. He mentioned that they appear to be enjoying their relationship, which is positive. Goodell also noted that their connection has brought together more fans of Taylor and the NFL. He praised Swift as an incredible artist and Kelce as an outstanding player, stating that their relationship is beneficial for the league.

Swift didn't seem bothered by the attention her relationship with Travis received. In an interview with TIME in December 2023, she mentioned not knowing how the paparazzi found out where she was staying. She expressed her support for Travis and joked about possibly annoying some dads, Brads, and Chads with the media coverage.

Before getting back to training for the upcoming season, Travis has been supporting Swift at her international concerts. He recently looked back on how their whirlwind romance began.

On his podcast "New Heights," Kelce humorously shared, "I don't know how I managed to win Taylor over since she's not really into sports. But somehow, I pulled it off. I know exactly how I did it."

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the NFL's consideration of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in planning the 2024 schedule, primarily to avoid conflicts with stadiums hosting her concerts. However, the article also delves into the broader impact of Swift's relationship with Travis Kelce on the NFL. Her high-profile presence at football games, the NFL's use of her music in promotions, and the attention from fans and media have all contributed to increased interest in the league.

Beyond the scheduling aspect, the article touches upon the underlying reasons for the heightened attention surrounding Taylor Swift's relationship with Travis Kelce. Jason Kelce's comments emphasize the immense popularity and appeal of Swift, which drives the demand for coverage and content related to her. Additionally, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell acknowledges the positive impact of their relationship on the league, recognizing the increased fan engagement and the positive image it projects. Taylor Swift's nonchalance towards the media attention, coupled with Travis Kelce's humorous take on their courtship, adds a personal and lighthearted touch to the discussion.