NFL star Travis Kelce was overcome with emotion during the latest episode of his popular podcast New Heights after receiving heartbreaking news: his sister-in-law, Kylie Kelce, wife of his brother Jason Kelce, has been diagnosed with cancer.
The deeply personal moment unfolded just minutes into the episode, which was expected to be a lighthearted recap of offseason training and upcoming NFL events. Instead, listeners were met with a somber and vulnerable side of the Kansas City Chiefs tight end.
“This Hit Me Like a Truck”
As Travis addressed the topic, his voice cracked and tears filled his eyes.
“I never thought I’d say this on here… Kylie has been diagnosed with cancer,” Travis said, choking back sobs. “It’s not fair. She’s the strongest woman I know. She’s our rock.”
His brother, Jason Kelce, who recently retired from the NFL, sat quietly beside him, visibly emotional but composed. He placed a comforting hand on Travis’s shoulder as he continued.
“She’s always been the one who takes care of everyone — me, Jason, the kids. And now she’s the one who needs us more than ever. I just feel so helpless.”
A Private Battle Made Public
Sources close to the Kelce family later confirmed that Kylie was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer earlier this month following a routine check-up.
Though the family initially chose to keep the diagnosis private, Travis’s emotional reveal on the podcast was reportedly done with Kylie’s blessing — aimed at raising awareness and encouraging early detection.
“Kylie is receiving treatment from one of the best oncology teams in Philadelphia,” a family friend shared. “She’s already started chemotherapy and is facing it with incredible bravery and determination.”
An Outpouring of Support
Following the emotional podcast episode, social media exploded with messages of support for the Kelce family. NFL players, celebrities, and fans alike shared their prayers and solidarity under the hashtag #TeamKylie.
Taylor Swift, Travis’s girlfriend, posted a rare and heartfelt message on Instagram:
“Sending love and strength to Kylie and the entire Kelce family. She’s one of the most incredible women I’ve ever met. We’re with you every step of the way.”
Philadelphia Eagles fans — long-time supporters of Jason and Kylie — have also organized fundraisers and pledged donations to breast cancer charities in her name.
Jason Speaks Up
Later in the episode, Jason Kelce spoke briefly about the diagnosis, offering a mix of gratitude and hope.
“It’s been a hard few weeks. But Kylie is tough as hell. We’re going to fight this. And we’re already feeling the love and support from everyone. It means more than you know.”
He also revealed that their daughters — Wyatt, Elliotte, and Bennett — are being shielded from the full gravity of the situation for now.
“They just know Mommy’s going to the doctor to get better. And that’s enough for them right now.”
Moving Forward
The Kelce family plans to continue sharing parts of their journey, with the goal of spreading awareness and fostering community among other families battling cancer.
On the next New Heights episode, they’ve announced plans to invite a special guest: a breast cancer survivor who will talk about the importance of early screening and mental health during treatment.
SEE MORE: Travis Kelce’s response to fan’s Taylor Swift compliment was perfect
If there’s one perk that comes with dating Taylor Swift, it’s that her fans are always there to remind you that you’re dating Taylor Swift. After all, Swifties are incredible cheerleaders and die-hard supporters of Swift’s romance (and her romantic partners). And on top of that, they’re everywhere.
So, whenever Travis Kelce is feeling down, there will be a Swiftie nearby to lift his spirit by reminding him who he’s been dating for the past two years. Such was the case recently, when Kelce took part in the American Century Championship golf tournament.
As the Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end was getting ready to challenge his fellow celebrity golfers, a Swiftie swooped in to give him a pep talk.
Kansas City Chiefs TE Travis Kelce has cute reaction to fan saying Taylor Swift is “the best girlfriend”
In fan footage shared on X, Kelce is seen pacing the course at the Edgewood Tahoe Resort, preparing to tee off. As the Super Bowl champ, rocking a pink polo and dark blue golf pants, walks behind his caddy, a fan called out. “You have the best girlfriend in the world. You got it.”
Kelce nodded his head as he contemplated what this fan said. And his response was just two words: “Good point.”
Kelce and his brother, Jason Kelce, took part in the annual ACC tournament, presented by American Century Investments. Jason was introduced as a “zero-star walk-on running back,” which prompted Travis to crack up, according to People. But he didn’t escape the teasing: his introduction called him “one of the best centers,” poking fun at how he began his football career.
Kelce had another Swiftian moment during the event. In a video shared to TikTok, Travis danced along to Taylor’s “Shake It Off” as he walked up onto a landing. Someone threw Kelce a basketball, and he sank it into a nearby basket.
The random Swiftie’s encouragement probably helped Kelce in more ways than one: according to The Golf News, Kelce tied with “Holey Moley” star Rob Riggle for 63rd place. At least he did better than Jason, who finished at 86th.
Ex-NHL star Joe Pavelski won the tournament, finishing ahead of Baseball Hall of Famer John Smoltz and singer Jake Owen. Riggle’s ‘Holey Moley’ co-star, Steph Curry, finished 5th. Tony Romo (8th), Adam Thielen (T11), Matt Ryan (T11), and Aaron Rodgers (15th) all finished in the Top 20.
This golf tournament will likely be Kelce’s last bit of fun for a while. The Chiefs begin their training camp on July 22. The team’s first preseason game is on Aug. 9, where they’ll meet the Arizona Cardinals. The official 2025-26 NFL season kicks off on Sep. 4, with the Chiefs playing their first game the following night.
There’s a lot of speculation about Kelce’s future headed into this NFL season. He signed a two-year $34.5 million contract extension right ahead of the 2024 season, meaning that he’ll be an unrestricted free agent once this season ends. He could re-sign a new deal with the Chiefs, go to another team, or retire like Jason did in 2024.
If he chooses that third option, Kelce will have plenty of free time to work on his golf game.
