Exploring the Headlines with Experts
Nora Princiotti and Jodi Walker of The Ringer explore various tabloid headlines covering Travis Kelce’s 2023 NFL season and relationship with Taylor Swift. As a culture writer, Jodi doesn’t have much knowledge of sports but leans on Nora’s expertise in both topics. They dissect the headlines together, finding humor and insight into Kelce’s lifestyle and the pressures of dating a celebrity.
Spending Kelce’s Birthday in the Car
The first headline discusses Kelce celebrating his 34th birthday in his car with friends, not Taylor Swift. Jodi and Nora speculate on details like where exactly (a Sonic parking lot?), how Kelce’s large frame fits in any car, and why Swift wasn’t invited to such an occasion with her boyfriend. They learn birthdays in the NFL come with social expectations.
Taking a Bye Week Trip to Argentina
When Kelce visited Swift in Argentina during a bye week, Eli Manning defended the decision. Jodi and Nora explain the precarious nature of NFL bye weeks and traditions around them, like the Giants receivers’ scandalous Miami boat trip that was dubbed “Boatghazi.” Manning likely wanted to help Kelce avoid similar trouble.
Missing Swift’s Birthday in NYC
Kelce didn’t travel for Swift’s 34th birthday in New York City, sparking questions from Jodi. Nora schools her on the responsibilities of NFL players and strict rules around practicing, noting even births can warrant permission. Traveling would definitely cause a backlash.
Family Football Allegiances
When Kelce’s brother Jason calls out Swift’s dad for wearing a Chiefs sweater despite being an Eagles fan, Jodi learns of Swift’s Pennsylvania roots. Nora assures their playful exchange shows #TeamTravis unity despite franchise rivalries.
Viral Spa Video Causes Confusion
A resurfaced 2017 video of Kelce at a spa in a towel goes viral. Jodi questions tabloid descriptions while Nora provides context for ESPN’s wellness feature. They poke fun at publications for spinning it sexually.
Sibling Rivalries and Texting Woes
Ex-Chief Tyreek Hill jokes Kelce doesn’t text back due to Swift, sparking jokes about fame and logistics. Jodi empathizes with texting struggles as Nora rightfully calls out Hill’s reputation for causing problems.
Speculation Around Relationship Challenges
Questioning a Delish article’s source claiming challenges, Jodi asserts tabloids, not the relationship itself, seem the most difficult. Nora agrees the necessary “together vs not” binary creates unnecessary drama.
Sitting Out for a Gut Feeling
When Kelce sits a game citing an instinct, Jodi humorously assumes gastrointestinal or supernatural causes. Nora explains the strategic nature of late-season rest for stars nearing playoff time.
Making Sense of the Headlines
Jodi thanks Nora for the educational experience, realizing she gained NFL insight but the headlines ultimately provide little relationship information. Both find humor in the situation and Nora’s expertise helps navigate misunderstandings.
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