Chiefs TE Travis Kelce responds to backlash over NFL memo on vaccinations

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The hot button issue in the NFL is COVID-19 vaccination, and the choices players have made heading into the new season.

The league issued a memo last week, stating that a team may be forced to forfeit a game if unvaccinated players test positive, leading to an outbreak of COVID-19. This opened up a flurry of complaints from some of the league’s biggest stars.

The Kansas City Chiefs’ top stars have been open and honest about their experiences and feelings on the vaccine for months leading to the start of training camp. One of the more vocal advocates has been All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce, who recently partnered with Walgreens to promote vaccinations. The 31-year-old tight end spoke with NFL Network’s Andrew Siciliano about the league memo on Thursday.

”I mean, it’s a choice,” said Kelce, “It’s a choice; I’m not gonna say it’s right or wrong for anybody. I feel that, you know, getting the vaccines is the right thing to do. I think it’s easier to be around family comfortably. You know, and getting the vaccine is supposed to help fight the disease. So it’s not as deadly. And I think that’s, that’s a plus to me. I’m not gonna sit here and tell another guy that he has to get it or that, you know, he’s wrong for not getting it. That’s his decision in life. And, you know, I would just ask you, if you are in the NFL, if you don’t get the vaccine, just live smart, man. Be safe. And try not to put your peers in an uncomfortable position.”

Kelce remains a popular player around the league and is not afraid to speak his mind on any issue. He didn’t use his time during the interview to lecture fellow players, preferring to help the public understand their concerns and personal choices.

”I mean, there’s been a lot of guys vocal about not wanting to get the vaccine. And as I said, Man, it’s up to you,” said Kelce. “Nothing wrong with that. I just hope that you know, knowing that what is out there, that the chances are still, you know, maybe they might not be high, but the chances are still there. Just live smart. And then think of others. While you’re out here, you know, living your life.”

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