Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce. Gotham/GC Images
Taylor Swift's relationship with Travis Kelce, and her connection to the Kansas City Chiefs, runs deeper than what meets the eye. Swift fans, known as Swifties, recently discovered an interesting link between the couple. On October 16, they took to social media to highlight that Khalen Saunders, a former Chiefs athlete, is the younger brother of Kameron Saunders, who gained attention as one of Swift's backup dancers on The Eras Tour and also features in her new concert film.
Khalen, aged 27, was chosen by the Chiefs in the 2019 NFL Draft, granting him a Super Bowl championship in his debut season as his team triumphed over the San Francisco 49ers. He, along with Kelce and the Chiefs, achieved yet another Super Bowl victory earlier this year against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Later on, Khalen was traded to the New Orleans Saints prior to the 2023 NFL season. Meanwhile, his brother experienced a significant accomplishment while performing with Swift in Kansas City during the summer.
"This weekend is truly special! HOME STATE!!! Kameron excitedly shared on Instagram in July, posting a slideshow of photos taken at Arrowhead Stadium, where they posed wearing Khalen's No. 99 uniform.
Kameron went on to say, "Although I was born and raised in St. Louis, Kansas City feels like a second home to me! I graduated from UMKC, and I've been living here on and off for the past 4 years. My brother played for the Chiefs from 2019 to 2023, and I've attended numerous games at this stadium to support him, but I've never had the chance to step foot on the field. It feels like everything has come full circle now! I am absolutely thrilled to share this moment with all of you! I'll see you out there! Sending big hugs!"
Kam Saunders. Courtesy of Kam Saunders/Instagram
Swift's Eras Tour made a stop in Missouri on July 7 and 8. One of the attendees was Kelce, who disclosed on his "New Heights" podcast that he tried to give Swift his phone number on a friendship bracelet. Unfortunately, they did not have a chance to meet during the concert. Kelce playfully expressed that he felt a bit disappointed, joking that he took it personally. Regardless, he praised the incredible show and the enthusiastic support of the Kansas City crowd, who showed their excitement by dressing in pink and purple.
Kelce extended an invitation to Swift to witness his electrifying performance at the stadium, which she gladly accepted. Observers caught a glimpse of her at the Chiefs game on September 24, where she enthusiastically cheered from his luxurious VIP suite, joined by his close friends and mother, Donna. Demonstrating her unwavering support, Swift accompanied her newfound love interest at two more events, the most recent being the Chiefs' match against the Denver Broncos on Thursday, October 12.
Just a few days later, to the delight of fans, the dynamic duo made unexpected appearances on the season 49 premiere of Saturday Night Live, hosted by Pete Davidson. As they made their way to an afterparty, Swift and Kelce were seen hand-in-hand, and they continued to captivate attention with a romantic dinner date in New York City on Sunday, October 15.
According to sources, earlier this month it was revealed that Swift has optimistic expectations for her future with Kelce. The insider mentioned that she is genuinely having a great time getting to know Travis and they are taking things gradually. It is mentioned that she appreciates his down-to-earth and unaffected nature despite his fame, and finds him attractive. Similarly, another source reveals that Travis is completely infatuated with Swift.