Nate Burleson says networks will need to “back the Brinks truck up” to land Travis Kelce once he retires from the NFL.
The CBS Sports analyst, speaking on the “Front Office Sports HQ” podcast, believes Kelce’s unique blend of on-field dominance and media savvy makes him one of the most valuable broadcasting prospects in sports history.
Kelce already has a proven track record beyond football. His podcast “New Heights,” co-hosted with his brother Jason Kelce, is one of the biggest sports podcasts in the country, drawing millions of listeners and major sponsorships.
Burleson noted Kelce’s natural comfort in front of a microphone, calling him “articulate, he got the swag, he knows the game and he’s a master of being in front of a microphone.”
That experience gives Kelce a major edge over other former players trying to break into TV, Burleson added.
“He’s not gonna show up for cheap change,” Burleson said, pointing to Kelce’s NFL earnings and his relationship with global pop star Taylor Swift.
Their July 3 wedding drew a star-studded crowd including Selena Gomez, Dakota Johnson, Anya Taylor-Joy, Kesha, Ashanti, Nelly, Benson Boone, Bradley Cooper, Camila Cabello, Ciara, Russell Wilson, and Cooper Kupp — underscoring Kelce’s crossover appeal.
That visibility extends far beyond football fans. Kelce is now a household name in entertainment, music, and pop culture.
Burleson compared Kelce’s media potential to Tom Brady’s $375 million, 10-year deal with Fox Sports — but suggested Kelce could be even more attractive.
“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.”
Kelce, 34, is entering his 14th NFL season with the Kansas City Chiefs after helping lead the team to multiple Super Bowl appearances.
He remains one of Patrick Mahomes’ most trusted targets, but retirement has been a recurring topic in recent years.
Kelce has openly said he continues to evaluate his future, with no firm timeline for stepping away.
Still, Burleson doesn’t think Kelce will fade from the spotlight.
Whether it’s broadcasting, podcasting, or another media venture, his next chapter is expected to be just as high-profile — and just as lucrative — as his playing career.
Networks already know the value of star power in sports media.
With Kelce, they won’t just be buying a former player.
They’ll be buying a brand — one with global reach, massive fan loyalty, and proven success outside the game.
Whoever moves first, Burleson warned, better bring the Brinks truck.
Source: Yahoo Sports