ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith defends Taylor Swift against NFL critics: ‘Let’s show some respect’

Stephen A. Smith urged people to show some respect to Taylor Swift

Stephen A. Smith seems to have a soft heart when it comes to Travis Kelce‘s sweetheart. As a sports personality defended Taylor Swift amidst the criticism of her attending the Kansas City Chiefs game.

Since the romance rumors between the NFL star tight end and the Hollywood superstar began, at the beginning of the 2023 regular season, there has been a lot of coverage of the couple, while Swift attended most of Kelce’s games to show her support. However, not everyone seemed very happy about it.

Chris “Mad Dog” Russo recently expressed his frustration with the media coverage and attention the “Cruel Summer” singer got this season, as he included her beau’s name in the list of players who are under immense pressure to win the Super Bowl.

In Smith’s opinion, Kelce’s name on the list has to do more with his relationship with the iconic singer, instead of playing on the field, as he debated his inclusion in that group. Given the high amount of criticism that Swift has been receiving just for supporting her boyfriend, Smith gave a strong denunciation as he went on to defend her.

The sports analyst said on ‘First Take:’

I have to take a moment to come to the defense of Taylor Swift. Everybody’s sitting up there and acting like she’s some kind of impediment and, excuse me, she did her job! That Eras Tour? Off the chain. Generated billions.

Smith asserted as he fired back at her critics, including Russo:

She’s going to support her dude. To show up at a football game and the cameras are on her, that ain’t her fault! And excuse me, by the way, she went to the games after the concerts. It’s not like she used the games to bump up the concerts.Stephen A. Smith continued

Taylor Swift at Eras Tour (Via Forbes)

Smith condemned the idea of believing the NFL promoted Swift in any way. He acknowledged the 12-time Grammy winner’s fame and Eras Tour success, as he urged others to “show some respect” to her. He added:

She probably is gonna have a positive impact on Travis Kelce’s performance, OK? I’m not trying to disrespect Taylor Swift.Stephen A. Smith addedRelated: How much money has Browns QB Joe Flacco earned in contract incentives following TNF win over the Jets?Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift were nominated for the People Choice Awards

Good news for Swifties, as both Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have been nominated for People’s Choice Awards this year. The NFL star tight end has been nominated in the category of “Athlete of the Year,” but her lady love is shining in five categories: Female Artist of the Year, Social Celebrity of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Movie of the Year and Concert Tour of the Year.

As the People Choice Awards are entirely fan-voted, the glorious couple being the nominees is no surprise. Since the two started dating, there has been a sudden surge in the merchandise sales of Kelce and the Chiefs game tickets.

Moreover, the female audiences have grown in large numbers. They have supported each other throughout their dating period, whether it’s NFL games or Eras’ tour. Swift and Kelce have been there for each other and their fairytale romance has made headlines every other week.