The Chiefs tight end has risen in popularity after he started dating Taylor Swift

Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce has emerged as the top vote-getter in fan ballots for the 2025 NFL Pro Bowl Games.

Kelce garnered 252,200 votes, narrowly edging out Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who received 250,082 votes.

Travis Kelce’s numbers aren’t Pro Bowl worthy

While Kelce’s nine-time Pro Bowl career speaks for itself, many fans and analysts believe his skyrocketing popularity can be attributed to his high-profile relationship with global pop icon Taylor Swift.

Over the past 18 months, Swift’s devoted fanbase, the Swifties, has embraced Kelce and supported his NFL endeavors, creating a wave of enthusiasm that some suggest influenced the Pro Bowl voting.

“Kelce is on the top because of the Swifties,” one social media user claimed, echoing a sentiment shared by many football fans online.

Others speculated that the NFL might even hope to draw Swift to the Pro Bowl Games by ensuring Kelce’s presence.

Kelce’s numbers this season remain mediocre, with 97 receptions for 823 yards and three touchdowns.

He trails Raiders rookie Brock Bowers and Arizona’s Trey McBride in receptions among tight ends.

While his career stats and legacy make him a perennial Pro Bowl contender, the impact of Swift’s fandom cannot be ignored.

The Pro Bowl voting process includes contributions from fans, players, and coaches, each accounting for one-third of the final tally.

Fan voting concluded on December 23, with rosters set to be revealed on January 2 during Good Morning Football on NFL Network.

The 2025 Pro Bowl Games will return to Orlando, featuring a mix of skill challenges and a flag football game led by Peyton and Eli Manning.

The event highlights the league’s best talent and offers fans a unique opportunity to engage with their favorite players.

Whether Kelce’s relationship with Swift played a significant role or not, his top finish underscores the power of fan support in shaping the NFL’s marquee events.

As one fan aptly put it, “Does anyone doubt the impact of Taylor Swift now?”