As questions continue to swirl around Travis Kelce‘s long-term NFL future, one sports media veteran believes the Kansas City Chiefs star could become one of the most sought-after personalities in television once he hangs up his cleats.

Former NFL wide receiver and current CBS Sports analyst Nate Burleson recently weighed in on Kelce’s post-football prospects, predicting that networks could be willing to spend big money to land the future Hall of Famer if he decides to move into broadcasting.

Travis Kelce’s Next Career Move Could Trigger A Sports TV Bidding War

Speaking on the “Front Office Sports HQ” podcast, Burleson argued that Kelce already possesses many of the qualities networks look for in an on-air personality.

“Trav is the guy that they’re gonna put on camera and he’s gonna do amazing,” Burleson said. “He’s articulate, he got the swag, he knows the game and he’s a master of being in front of a microphone given his podcast and the success.”

Kelce’s Media Empire Is Already Taking Shape

Unlike many athletes who begin building media careers after retirement, Kelce has spent years developing a presence beyond the football field.

His wildly successful “New Heights” podcast with his brother, Jason Kelce, has become one of the biggest sports podcasts in the country, attracting millions of listeners and landing major sponsorship deals. The show’s popularity has helped transform the Kelce brothers into media stars in their own right, giving Travis valuable experience behind the microphone long before his playing days come to an end.

Burleson suggested that background gives Kelce a significant advantage over many former players attempting to break into broadcasting. “Travis Kelce is a receiver in the tight end’s body,” Burleson joked. “And if we know anything about receivers, we love attention and we love to hear ourselves talk and we love to listen to ourselves.”

Why Travis Kelce Could Be Worth A Massive Broadcasting Deal

The conversation comes at a time when sports networks are increasingly willing to invest heavily in star power.

In recent years, broadcasters have spent enormous sums to secure former athletes with built-in fan bases and name recognition. Tom Brady‘s reported 10-year, $375 million deal with Fox Sports demonstrated just how valuable a high-profile NFL personality can be in today’s media landscape.

Kelce may bring something even rarer: crossover appeal.

Taylor Swift Effect Could Boost Travis Kelce’s Value Even Higher

In addition to being one of the most accomplished tight ends in NFL history, Kelce has become a household name far beyond football thanks to his relationship with global pop superstar Taylor Swift. The couple’s July 3 wedding generated significant attention from both sports fans and pop culture audiences, further expanding Kelce’s reach beyond traditional NFL circles.

The star-studded guest list included celebrities and athletes such as Selena Gomez, Dakota Johnson, Anya Taylor-Joy, Kesha, Ashanti and Nelly, Benson Boone, Bradley Cooper, Camila Cabello, Ciara and Russell Wilson, and Cooper Kupp with wife Anna Marie Kupp, proving the couple’s influence across entertainment, music, and professional sports.

Burleson believes that level of visibility could make Kelce an especially attractive target for networks. “What I do know is whoever is going after Travis, they’re going to have to back that Brinks truck up,” Burleson said. “Because one, he’s made a ton of money in the league, his lady got paper, I’ll be honest, so he’s not gonna show up for cheap change.”

Retirement Questions Continue To Follow The Chiefs Star

Kelce’s future has become a recurring topic after several seasons of retirement speculation. The veteran tight end recently completed his 13th NFL season with the Chiefs, helping lead Kansas City to multiple Super Bowl appearances while cementing his place among the greatest players ever at his position.

Despite remaining one of Patrick Mahomes‘ most trusted targets, Kelce has openly acknowledged that retirement is a decision he continues to evaluate as his career progresses. Whenever that day comes, Burleson doesn’t expect Kelce to stay out of the spotlight for long.

Whether it’s broadcasting, podcasting, entertainment, or another media venture entirely, the CBS analyst believes Kelce’s next chapter could be just as lucrative as his NFL career, and potentially even more competitive for the companies hoping to sign him.

The Nate Burleson Says Networks Will Have To ‘Back The Brinks Truck Up’ For Travis Kelce first appeared on The Blast