'He should shake it off': Internet shreds Tony Dungy for saying Taylor Swift has 'disenchanted' NFL fans

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Taylor Swift's relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has become a captivating spectacle, drawing both admirers and critics alike.

The 'Blank Space' singer's presence at Chiefs games, especially during key moments, has sparked a wave of opinions, with some asserting that it has heightened viewership while others, including Hall of Famer Tony Dungy, argue it's overshadowing the essence of the game.

Also Read: Taylor Swift 'blown away' by Travis Kelce's surprise Eras Tour wrap party as she expected a quiet dinner

Tony Dungy thinks Taylor Swift might be detracting fans from the essence of the NFL

Dungy, a revered figure in NFL history, voiced his concerns about what he perceives as the "Taylor Swift effect" during a recent interview with Fox News. He contends that the entertainment aspect, symbolized by the pop star's frequent appearances, is detracting fans from the core of the game.

"That’s the thing that’s disenchanting people with sports now. There’s so much on the outside coming in. Entertainment value and different things. Taking away from what really happens on the field," remarked Dungy.

Also Read: Taylor Swift fuels engagement rumors with Travis Kelce after fans spot bizarre detail in birthday pics

Swift and Kelce's romance began around September 2023, marked by the tight end's creative attempt to court the pop sensation through homemade bracelets during the pop singer's Eras Tour.

Also Read: Taylor Swift hailed as 'wonderful' for handling staff's outburst at fans in viral video of hospital visit

While they did not officially confirm their relationship until recently, public sightings of them on dates, holding hands, and sharing kisses after games and concerts fueled speculation.

The Chiefs and Kelce have faced challenges during this period, prompting speculation that Swift's celebrity status may be a distraction. Interestingly, statistics at one point suggested that Kelce performed better in games when Swift was present compared to those without her attendance, as per WFLA. 

Internet slams Tony Dungy's critique of Taylor Swift's presence at NFL games

Soon after Dungy's remarks regarding Swift's presence at NFL matches came to light, the online community shared their perspectives on the topic, with many slamming the former football player. 

One quipped, "Tony should shake it off," referencing the singer's hit track. Another noted, "Nah. More like the broadcasters always have to bring her up and show her in the stands. It’s the NFL doing it for more viewership."

A person asserted, "For what it’s worth, it’s not her doing. It’s the networks that keep the camera focused on her constantly. If they didn’t show her, no one would care and we could go back to enjoying the game."

"Disagree, @NFL gained millions of new fans/viewers from this which increases exposure revenue worldwide. @Chiefs should be so lucky," opined someone else. 

Taking a dig at the former Colts head coach, an individual wrote, "OR Tony Dungy is mad that Taylor Swift has proved a larger fan base than the NFL." 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.

More from MEAWW

Travis Kelce splurged $175K on luxe gifts for Taylor Swift’s 35th birthday after 'intense' few months

NFL celebrates Taylor Swift’s 35th birthday with heartwarming tribute to her and Travis Kelce