Travis Kelce's Popularity Takes Major Hit Before 2026 NFL Season

Travis Kelce was among the 10 or so most popular players in the NFL in both 2023 and 2024. The three-time Super Bowl-winning tight end had the fourth-most popular NFL jersey in '23 and the 11th-most popular NFL jersey in '24, according to the NFL Players' Association's end-of-year lists.

But heading into the 2026 NFL season, Kelce's popularity appears to have taken a serious hit.

The 36-year-old NFL tight end fell out of the Top 25 in jersey sales for the first time in a while. Kelce had the NFL's 24th-most popular jersey during the 2025-26 season, according to league data.

"Fans have more choices than ever when it comes to the players they follow and support, and the Year-End Top 50 gives us a real look at who they're showing up for," said Matt Curtin, President of NFL Players Inc. "This isn't just about jerseys. It's about the products fans choose to buy, collect, wear, and display every day. The rankings help show which players are breaking through, building strong connections with fans, and driving demand throughout the licensed products business."

Kelce fell to No. 29 on the list. He's in front of players like Maxx Crosby and Shedeur Sanders, while he's behind players like Joe Burrow and Jaxson Dart.

The three-time Super Bowl-winning tight end had seen his popularity surge in recent years, thanks in part to his relationship with Taylor Swift.

Kelce still hopes to become 'Shaq' of the NFL

Those around the NFL believe Kelce can become the "Shaq" of the league.

"People around him see him becoming the NFL's version of Shaq – someone whose name is attached to a wide range of successful businesses because he knows how to leverage his popularity. And if opportunities arise to collaborate with Taylor, he's certainly open to that, too," one insider said.

"One thing is clear: Travis has no interest in disappearing after football. He wants to maximize the platform he's built, continue growing as a businessman and keep expanding his reach.

"Being with Taylor has only reinforced his drive to succeed on an even bigger stage."

The Chiefs and the rest of the NFL will begin the 2026 season in three months.

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This story was originally published June 10, 2026 at 1:55 PM.