"Forever in debt": Travis Kelce Once Talked About The Meaningful Reason Behind Him Wearing No. 87 Chiefs Jersey

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has reached a pivotal moment in his career as he heads towards his fourth Super Bowl appearance with the team. His exceptional skills have propelled him to the forefront of the league, earning him a spot in four Super Bowl appearances. Off the field, his personal life has also garnered significant attention, particularly his high-profile relationship with singer Taylor Swift.After Swift attended one of Kelce’s games, his No. 87 jersey saw an extraordinary sales spike, with reports indicating a 400% surge. However, the significance of the number 87 goes far beyond fanfare and popularity—its roots are deeply personal for the younger Kelce.
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In an unforgettable moment of NFL history, Travis and his brother Jason Kelce made headlines last year when they became the first siblings to face off in a Super Bowl. This rare occurrence catapulted them to unprecedented fame, not just for their athletic prowess but also for their heartwarming bond, which they regularly showcase on their highly-rated podcast. Their supportive family and Travis’s relationship with Swift have only further solidified their place in the spotlight. Yet, both players remain celebrated for their immense talent, as evidenced by their continued recognition as Pro Bowl selections.
Beneath this fame, however, lies a touching story of brotherly support that shaped Travis Kelce’s career. During his college years at the University of Cincinnati, Travis found himself at a crossroads after being suspended from the football team for violating team rules. In what could have derailed his career, it was Jason’s unwavering support that helped steer him back on course. Jason spoke with coaches on his younger brother’s behalf, convincing them to give Travis a second chance. In a moment of reflection, Travis referred to his older brother as his "lifeline" during this tumultuous time.

Travis further elaborated on the symbolic meaning behind his jersey number in an interview with NFL Films, revealing that his decision to wear No. 87 was not coincidental. “If there is a Kelce legacy, two brothers making it to the NFL, it all started in 1987 because this big guy was born in 1987,” he explained while sitting beside Jason, who dons the No. 62 jersey. Travis’s choice of No. 87 serves as a tribute to his brother’s birth year and the lasting impact Jason has had on his life and career.
The tight end’s gratitude toward his older brother is deeply felt, with Travis stating, "You're the only reason why I wear 87 anyways. You started the legacy." His admiration for Jason is also evident in his acknowledgment that he owes his entire career to him. “I’m forever in debt to this guy for putting his name, our name – the Kelce name – on the line,” Travis said, emphasizing just how much his brother’s intervention meant.
Now, as both brothers continue to cement their legacies in the NFL, with potential Hall of Fame careers in sight, the Kelce brothers’ story serves as a reminder of the power of family, support, and perseverance. Their journey—marked by brotherly love and mutual respect—resonates with fans, both on and off the field.
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