Travis Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs’ star tight end, is emerging as a major force in the NFL, not only for his on-field achievements but also for his impressive off-field earnings.
Since joining the league in 2013, Kelce’s profile has seen a remarkable boost, largely due to his high-profile relationship with pop sensation Taylor Swift.
Recent research by Sportico highlights a dramatic 177 percent increase in Kelce’s licensing income, a rise largely driven by his association with Swift. This year, Kelce is expected to earn $30 million from endorsements and other ventures, placing him at the top of the NFL’s off-field earning chart.
His earnings from these activities have surpassed those of his teammate, quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is second with $27 million in off-field income.
In addition to his endorsement revenue, Kelce will earn $17 million from his current Chiefs contract this season, contributing to his overall financial success. He ranks 11th on the list of the NFL’s highest earners, a list that is predominantly filled with quarterbacks and wide receivers, making Kelce the only tight end among the top earners.
Kelce’s impressive financial situation is bolstered by his contract with the Chiefs. In 2020, he signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension, which was restructured earlier this year. His current deal includes a base salary of $5.75 million, an $11 million roster bonus, and a $250,000 workout bonus, totaling $17 million in guaranteed salary.
His off-field success has also significantly increased his net worth, which is estimated at around $90 million by Celebrity Net Worth. Beyond endorsement deals with major brands like McDonald’s, Papa John’s, Nike, and Dick’s Sporting Goods, Kelce is also thriving in content creation.
He co-hosts the popular podcast “New Heights” with his brother Jason Kelce, which recently secured a three-year, $100 million deal with Amazon’s Wondery.