Kansas City Chiefs' tight end, Travis Kelce, candidly shared his financial journey in a recent episode of his podcast «New Heights.» Despite earning a significant contract in his rookie year, Travis admitted to being financially strained by the end of his first season in the NFL. He confessed, «I was damn near dead broke.» Despite a $3.12 million contract and a $703,304 signing bonus, he had little to show for it aside from a prized pair of limited edition sneakers.
Travis's initial spending habits were marked by splurges on collectible shoes and extravagant nights out.
He recalled shelling out approximately $10,000 on a pair of Nike Air MAG 'Marty McFlys'. His penchant for nightlife led to costly nights in clubs, with VIP bottle service being a particular budget-drainer.
Reflecting on this period, Travis advised rookies, «Don’t get caught up in buying bottles, it’s the fastest way to lose your money.»
With players only receiving payments early in the year, Travis found himself financially strained before his second season. His brother and co-host, Jason Kelce, acknowledged that many rookies were unaware that their paychecks would cease once the season concluded.
However, Travis's financial situation has undergone a drastic transformation.
With contract extensions totaling over $100 million and additional earnings outside of football, his net worth now stands at an estimated $30 million as of fall 2023. Furthermore, his professional success on the field continues to rise, culminating in his second Super Bowl victory with the Chiefs in 2023.