Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been at the center of many high-stakes NFL battles, but his latest challenge? Keeping Taylor Swift from performing at a Super Bowl halftime show—at least for now.
With Swift’s relationship with Chiefs’ star tight end Travis Kelce dominating headlines, fans have speculated about whether the pop icon could eventually take center stage at the Super Bowl halftime show. However, Mahomes recently made it clear, albeit jokingly, that he has a vested interest in making sure that doesn’t happen anytime soon.
During a recent interview, Mahomes was asked about the possibility of Swift headlining a future Super Bowl halftime performance. In response, the Chiefs quarterback quipped that he’s actively trying to prevent it—for one key reason: he wants Kelce to keep playing football.
If Taylor ever gets that halftime show, I think we might lose Travis for the entire second half, Mahomes joked. He’d be out there singing and dancing instead of focusing on the game.
His lighthearted comment sent fans into a frenzy, with many playfully suggesting that Kelce, a known Swiftie, might ditch the Chiefs’ halftime adjustments in favor of cheering for his superstar girlfriend.
Swift is no stranger to stadium-sized spectacles. Her Eras Tour has shattered records, proving her ability to command an audience of millions. However, she has never headlined a Super Bowl halftime show, despite being one of the most requested artists for the role.
Rumors have circulated that Swift declined past invitations due to conflicts with her album releases and tour commitments. Additionally, her partnership with Coca-Cola allegedly clashed with the Super Bowl’s longtime sponsorship deal with Pepsi, which had exclusive rights to the halftime show until 2022. With Apple Music now sponsoring the event, the door could be open for Swift to take the stage in the future.
Mahomes and Kelce have been one of the NFL’s most dominant duos for years, and their off-field friendship is just as strong. Since Swift and Kelce’s romance went public, Mahomes and his wife, Brittany Mahomes, have been spotted hanging out with the couple at various events.
While Mahomes’ comment about preventing Swift’s halftime show was clearly in good fun, it highlights just how much the Chiefs’ locker room has embraced the pop icon’s presence.
For now, Mahomes will focus on leading the Chiefs to another Super Bowl victory, but if Swift ever does perform at halftime, he might have to keep a close eye on his favorite target to make sure he’s still thinking about football.