“Naturally hate him”: Pat McAfee didn’t shy away from connecting Travis Kelce’s public image and his relationship with Taylor Swift

Pat McAfee opened up on Travis Kelce’s generosity while acknowledging Taylor Swift’s impact on his growing philanthropic presence. While Travis Kelce continues to make headlines as a Kansas City Chiefs superstar and a three-time Super Bowl champion, it’s his growing off-field legacy that’s earning admiration this week—one that’s closely tied to his high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift. The NFL tight end has made a powerful philanthropic move, donating $3.3 million toward a transitional home for homeless youth in Kansas City, and some are crediting Swift’s influence as part of the inspiration behind it.

The 6,500-square-foot facility, built in partnership with the nonprofit Foster Love, will offer more than just a roof over young people’s heads. Designed with heart and purpose, the home includes six bedrooms, five bathrooms, a game room, a study area, a spacious kitchen, and outdoor features like a fire pit and garden. But more importantly, it will provide mentorship, education, and a sense of belonging to youth who are often overlooked.

Pat McAfee, speaking on his ESPN show, didn’t shy away from connecting Kelce’s public image and his relationship with Swift to this generous gesture. “There are people that just naturally hate him because he's very popular, very famous,” McAfee said. “Especially now because he's dating the most popular and famous person in the world in Taylor Swift.”
He emphasized that Travis Kelce’s decision to invest in social good over luxury or personal gain should be celebrated: “So him giving back, making the world a better place, I think should be chatted about.” McAfee added, “He could have bought something for himself or his family but instead wanted to give it back to society.”
Travis Kelce’s charity work isn’t new. Through his 87 & Running Foundation, established in 2015, he’s long championed programs for underserved youth, focusing on education, leadership, and athletics. However, this latest donation feels like a deeper evolution—both in scale and intention.
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Swift’s presence seems to align with this transformation. Known for her own extensive philanthropic efforts, including recent multimillion-dollar disaster relief donations, she brings with her a culture of giving and a massive spotlight—one that may be encouraging Kelce to broaden his impact.
In the end, this isn’t just about a donation—it’s about a growing legacy shaped by love, leadership, and the desire to give back.