For the second consecutive year, Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce was noticeably absent from the Grammy Awards, where his girlfriend, pop sensation Taylor Swift, made a historic appearance. His decision to skip the prestigious event left fans speculating, debating, and, in some cases, outright criticizing the NFL player. But why did he miss such an important night in Swift’s career? Let’s break it all down.
Why Did Travis Kelce Miss the Grammys?
As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for Super Bowl LIX, set to take place on February 10, 2025, against the Philadelphia Eagles, Kelce’s priorities have been laser-focused on football. The tight end, known for his leadership on the field, was fully immersed in practice and strategic preparations, leaving him unable to attend the February 2 Grammy Awards.
According to reports, Kelce and his team arrived in New Orleans on February 2, just hours before Swift graced the Grammys’ red carpet. The Chiefs immediately began training at the Caesars Superdome, intensifying their game plan for the biggest football event of the year.
Kelce’s Own Words on Missing the Grammys
Kelce had already hinted at his likely absence during a January 2024 interview on The Pat McAfee Show. While expressing his desire to support Swift at the Grammys, he candidly admitted, “I think I’ve got practice on Sunday.” At the time, he was unsure of his travel schedule but knew that at least one of those days would involve critical team preparations.
McAfee humorously suggested that the media would undoubtedly run with the narrative that Kelce skipped the Grammys for football, which is precisely what happened. Still, Kelce remained firm in his commitment to his team, fully aware of the immense pressure leading up to the Super Bowl.
Fans React to Kelce’s No-Show at the Grammys
Not all fans took Kelce’s absence lightly. Many Swifties flooded social media with opinions, some understanding his decision while others were quick to criticize. Here are some of the most notable reactions:
- “How can Travis Kelce let a diva like that go to the Grammys alone???” wrote one X (formerly Twitter) user, referencing Swift’s record-breaking career and importance in the music industry.
- Another quipped, “If Travis Kelce actually cared about Taylor Swift, he would’ve lost the playoffs just to be at the Grammys.”
- Some questioned his priorities: “Omg… where is Travis Kelce?! Why can’t he support Taylor like she supports him at HIS games?! It’s not like the Super Bowl is for another week!”
- A humorous take read, “So Travis Kelce puts Swift second by not being at the Grammys, he’s resting for the Super Bowl which is a week away. LMAO!”
Many fans also pointed out that Swift had supported Kelce at his big moments. She was present at the January 26 playoff game where the Chiefs secured their spot in the Super Bowl. Some felt that Kelce skipping the Grammys was a one-sided trade-off.
Taylor Swift’s Reaction and Secret Tribute to Kelce
Despite Kelce’s absence, Swift didn’t seem bothered by it. Instead, she made subtle nods to their relationship throughout the night. One of the most talked-about details? A red-jeweled “T” accessory hanging over her thigh.
Eagle-eyed fans connected this to the lyrics from Swift’s song “Guilty as Sin” from her Grammy-nominated album The Tortured Poets Department:
“What if he’s written ‘mine’ on his upper thigh?”
The reference was clear: Swift was giving a discreet yet romantic nod to her relationship with Kelce.
Additionally, her Vivienne Westwood dress, which was in Chiefs-red, also seemed to pay homage to both her boyfriend and her re-released 2021 album, Red. This wouldn’t be the first time Swift used fashion to express her relationships—she previously wore jewelry referencing her ex, Joe Alwyn, in music videos.
What Did Swift Say to Kelce After His Championship Win?
In another heartwarming moment, Swift attended the AFC Championship Game where the Chiefs secured their Super Bowl ticket. Following the game, a lip reader analyzed footage of Swift’s exchange with Kelce and suggested that she told him:
“That was stunning. You were sublime. Out of this world. That was great.”
The report suggests that Swift was in awe of Kelce’s performance and wanted to praise him in the moment. Even though Kelce couldn’t be at the Grammys, Swift had already shown unwavering support for him during his biggest professional triumphs.
Kelce and Swift: A Love Story in the Public Eye
The power couple first sparked dating rumors in September 2023, when Swift was spotted at several Chiefs games. Kelce later confirmed on his New Heights Podcast that he had invited Swift to a game, playfully mentioning that he had tried to give her a bracelet with his number during her Eras Tour stop at Arrowhead Stadium in July 2023.
Although he didn’t get the chance to meet her then, it didn’t take long for their relationship to blossom. By October 2023, they were spotted holding hands at a Saturday Night Live afterparty, making their romance official. Since then, they’ve become one of the most talked-about celebrity couples, frequently making headlines.
Swifties vs. NFL Fans: The Divide
While many fans love the Swift-Kelce romance, some football purists have expressed frustration, believing that the relationship distracts from the game. The NFL has leaned into Swift’s popularity, often cutting to her reactions during Chiefs games, which has delighted Swifties but annoyed some hardcore football fans.
This dynamic has created a unique cultural clash—on one side, die-hard Swift fans who are eager to support Kelce, and on the other, traditional football audiences who prefer to keep the sport separate from celebrity drama.
Final Thoughts: Should Kelce Have Attended the Grammys?
At the end of the day, Travis Kelce’s decision to prioritize his Super Bowl preparation over attending the Grammys with Taylor Swift wasn’t shocking—it was expected. While some fans may have wanted to see the couple together at the event, Kelce’s commitment to his team remains a top priority.
Swift, for her part, seems unbothered, making subtle nods to her boyfriend throughout the night. The reality is, both of them are global icons with demanding schedules, and occasional absences are inevitable. Their relationship continues to thrive despite the occasional internet uproar.
