NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell can't deny that the Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce romance has been great for television ratings, but laughed off claims that it's scripted to gain media exposure.
"I don't think I'm that good a scripter, or anybody on our staff," Goodell said, Mediaite reported.
Goodell held his annual state-of-the-NFL press conference Tuesday as the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to face the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday in Super Bowl LVIII.
Pop icon Swift has been a frequent visitor this season at games to support Kelce, a star tight end for the Chiefs.
The NFL enjoyed record-setting TV ratings during the playoffs, which many attributed to the celebrity romance. Goodell acknowledged some impact but preferred to credit the product.
"I would tell you it's because of the great competition," Goodell said. "Listen, the competition has been off the charts this year; 70 percent of our games have been within one score in the fourth quarter. The young stars, the older stars, the amazing performances by teams. You see all that. That's what fans ultimately love."
Goodell conceded that "the Taylor Swift effect is also a positive. ... She's a remarkable performer. She knows great entertainment. I had the opportunity to go to two of her concerts with our girls and my wife. She's the best of the best, so having her come to NFL games, having her a part of that, is nothing but a positive."