The NFL may need to reconsider its definition of a Most Valuable Player. While the spotlight typically shines on athletes like Patrick Mahomes or Travis Kelce, another celebrity has emerged as a game-changer, American artist and performer, Taylor Swift. Despite facing some boos during the 2025 Super Bowl on February 9, Swift has brought a huge impact on the league, and it is undeniable. This makes a strong case for her to get an official MVP status.
The last two years have witnessed a surge in NFL viewership since Taylor Swift begun appearing at games to show support to her boyfriend, Travis Kelce. When the superstar attended the Chiefs’ match against the New York Jets in 2023, ratings shot high. The NFL reported a significant 7% increase in viewership immediately following her September appearance with a staggering 53% spike among teen girls aged 12-17.
Reports from Front Office Sports estimate that her impact contributed an astonishing $331.5 million in revenue across various media platforms. This has been further echoed by a study from LendingTree which revealed that 16% of Americans increased their football-related expenditures after Swift’s electrifying Super Bowl performance. Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan went ahead to celebrate what he termed a “30 percent growth in our fan base,” crediting part of that surge to Taylor Swift’s involvement with Kelce and her presence in the NFL milieu.
Taylor Swift’s attendance has also set off a frenzy of merchandise sales with Travis Kelce’s number 87 jersey experiencing a 400% increase in sales post-Super Bowl. Travis Kelce himself has been vocal about the admiration he holds for Swift, particularly for her hardworking nature. At a recent press conference, he highlighted her dedication, reflecting the kind of character that aligns tightly with the values of the NFL – perseverance, passion, and drive.
While the boos she faced at the Super Bowl might have been jarring for some, they are overshadowed by the positive economic and viewing trends that the artist's association with the league has developed. It begs the question: shouldn’t the NFL formally acknowledge Taylor Swift’s substantial contribution to the game? Let us wait and see.
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