NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Says Taylor Swift Can Headline Super Bowl Halftime Show ‘Anytime She Wants’
Taylor Swift’s name has long been floated as a dream headliner for the Super Bowl Halftime Show, and now, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has put the ball firmly in her court. In an interview on NBC’s “Today” show Wednesday morning, Goodell made it clear: Swift is “welcome at any time” to perform at the NFL’s biggest stage.
Goodell Extends Open Invitation
“We would always love to have Taylor play,” Goodell said. “She is a special, special talent and obviously, she would be welcome at any time.” When pressed by host Savannah Guthrie about whether a performance is already in the works, Goodell replied coyly, “Maybe,” before deferring to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, which has overseen the halftime show since 2020. “I’m waiting on my friend Jay-Z,” Goodell joked. “It’s in his hands. I’m waiting for the smoke to come out.”
Reps for Swift and Roc Nation did not immediately respond to requests for comment, but the timing is notable: Last year’s halftime headliner announcement came on September 8, though some previous years saw the reveal later in the month.
Why Now? Swift’s Super Bowl Moment Feels Right
Swift’s name has been mentioned as a possible halftime headliner for years, but recent events have made her potential performance more timely than ever. Her relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has captivated fans and media alike, culminating in a public “meet the family” moment on Kelce and his brother’s “New Heights” podcast just days ago.
The Chiefs, heavily favored to win, lost the 2025 Super Bowl to the Philadelphia Eagles in a surprising 40-25 upset. Swift’s connection to Kelce and her presence at Chiefs games last season only fueled speculation that her Super Bowl debut could be imminent.
Roc Nation’s Halftime Legacy
Since Roc Nation took the reins in 2020, the halftime show has seen a diverse range of headliners. Jennifer Lopez and Shakira kicked off the new era, followed by The Weeknd, Dr. Dre’s hip-hop all-star lineup, Rihanna, Usher, and most recently, Kendrick Lamar with special guest SZA. Roc Nation’s stewardship has emphasized inclusivity, spotlighting minority artists and shifting away from the show’s previous tradition of predominantly white headliners.
What Happens Next?
With Goodell’s open invitation and Swift’s star power at an all-time high, speculation is set to intensify. The NFL’s decision, ultimately in partnership with Roc Nation and Jay-Z, will be watched closely by fans, industry insiders, and the millions who tune in for the spectacle each year.
If Swift does take the stage, it would mark one of the most anticipated halftime shows in history, blending her global appeal, chart-topping hits, and newfound NFL connections. For now, the world waits for the official announcement—and for the “smoke to come out,” as Goodell put it.
Taylor Swift is officially on the NFL’s wish list for the Super Bowl Halftime Show, and with Roger Goodell’s blessing and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation at the helm, the possibility feels closer than ever. Whether it’s this year or sometime soon, Swift’s turn on football’s biggest stage would be a cultural event—and the NFL is ready when she is.
