Amid rising speculations about Travis Kelce’s retirement, Stephen A. Smith has given his thoughts on why the Chiefs star might hang up his cleats soon. The sports analyst pointed to the three-time Super Bowl champ’s recent engagement to Taylor Swift, suggesting that it could factor into his decision to retire sooner rather than later.
Stephen A. Smith comments on Travis Kelce’s retirement
Speaking with PEOPLE, Stephen A. Smith weighed in on Travis Kelce’s future beyond the NFL and why he might be bowing out soon.
“I think that you could see the handwriting that’s on the wall,” Smith mused. “The guy is so talented, and there are so many other things that he could do outside of football that now would be the time for him to step away,” he added.
Smith further suggested that Kelce might be looking to settle down and focus on his personal life after his recent engagement to Taylor Swift. However, the ESPN sports analyst clarified that he is simply “speculating” based on his personal observations. Smith reiterated that he actually doesn’t “know anything” about Travis Kelce’s retirement plans.
“I will tell you that that’s what I think he’s going to do,” Smith speculated. “Obviously, he has a beautiful lady in his life, where there’s a lot of good things for him to go home to. And so, because of that, I think the combination of all of those things,” he added.
Smith further suggested other careers that Kelce might excel at after retiring from the NFL. As a successful television personality himself, he believes that the Chiefs’ tight end would make an exceptional analyst.
“He would instantly make it in television. Instantly,” Smith declared. “He’ll have a job waiting for him the second he’s finished. The second he’s finished, he’ll have a job waiting for him because that’s just what he brings to the table,” he stated.
Reflecting on Kelce’s recent performance, Smith claimed, “Those of us who know sports, watch sports, and watch him all the time, we know he’s not what he used to be.” However, the television star emphasized, “He’s one of the best people you’ll ever meet. He’s a beautiful person. Really, really good to know him, proud of him, the whole bit.”
