"The Taylor Swift effect": Kansas City Chiefs’ 2025 schedule fuels Swiftie buzz with must-watch primetime clashes early in the season

The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for what might be their most-watched season yet — and not just because of their Super Bowl pedigree. With the release of the 2025-2026 NFL schedule, Taylor Swift fans, aka Swifties, are marking their calendars for what feels like the third season of “Taylor at Arrowhead.” And if last year’s buzz was any indication, the upcoming season is about to be even bigger.With nine home games scheduled, including a high-profile Christmas Day showdown against the Denver Broncos, there’s a good chance Taylor Swift will once again light up Arrowhead Stadium with her presence. The 14-time Grammy winner became a near-weekly fixture in the stands last season, and with beau Travis Kelce returning for his 13th NFL season — which just so happens to be Swift’s lucky number — fans are predicting more of what they’ve come to call “Tayvoodoo.”The Chiefs’ tight end was seen reflecting on her impact, saying during Super Bowl 59 in New Orleans, “She’s a good luck charm.” That quote alone has fueled Swifties' hopes that her mere presence continues to boost the Chiefs' chances on the field. Superstition or not, there’s no denying that when Swift shows up, the atmosphere shifts — and the wins seem to follow.Kelce’s decision to return after briefly considering retirement post-Super Bowl loss to the Eagles adds more spark to the upcoming season. His return not only bolsters Kansas City’s championship aspirations but also ensures Swift's name remains orbiting NFL headlines. The couple has become the sport’s biggest crossover attraction.Interestingly, the NFL is leaning into this phenomenon. According to analyst Warren Sharp, “The Chiefs are now the first team in NFL history to receive 5 primetime games in the first 8 weeks of the season.” While this could easily be credited to the team’s dominance, many fans aren’t buying it.“You know it’s to get Swift on TV. It’s not about Patrick. It’s about Taylor fn Swift. Garbage,” one fan vented online. Another echoed, “The Taylor Swift effect…” And yet another jabbed, “Swifty in full effect. Most unlikable franchise in sports.”Though only two of those five primetime games are at Arrowhead, the scrutiny remains. It’s worth noting that last year, Swift attended only home games — plus the Super Bowl. But with the Chiefs set to play the Titans in Nashville on December 21, a visit to her hometown could be on the cards, adding even more fire to the frenzy.Like it or not, Swift's presence has woven itself into the Chiefs' narrative. Whether she’s seen as a good luck charm or a distraction, there's no denying this — Season 3 of Taylor Swift at Arrowhead is officially in session.Also Read: NFL drops full 2025 schedule with blockbuster Chiefs vs. Eagles Super Bowl rematch in Week 2