Chargers Player Slaps Chiefs TE Kelce in Brazil NFL Opener

In the Kansas City Chiefs' 2025 NFL season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, Brazil, Travis Kelce was notably slapped in the face by Chargers defensive tackle Teair Tart during the third quarter, sparking significant controversy. Although Tart received a 15-yard unnecessary roughness penalty, he was not ejected because the slap was deemed an open palm rather than a punch, a ruling explained by former NFL referee Terry McAulay. Tart later posted a mocking Dave Chappelle skit on social media, which intensified backlash from Kelce’s fiancée Taylor Swift’s fanbase, known as Swifties, who condemned the incident online. The game also saw Kelce express frustration with his own team, notably confronting teammate Jawaan Taylor after multiple penalties, while rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy suffered an injury that sidelined him. Kelce managed a touchdown in the 27-21 loss, but the Chiefs struggled overall, and the incident highlighted the complex interplay between NFL competition and celebrity culture. The event underscored tensions within the Chiefs and among fans, as well as the broader cultural impact of Kelce’s relationship with Swift.