Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has candidly discussed his short-lived telemarketing career, where he attempted to sell Obamacare surveys, describing himself as "the worst f***ing telemarketer in the world." This revelation came during a recent episode of the New Heights podcast, which he co-hosts with his older brother Jason Kelce.
From Telemarketing to NFL Stardom
Three years before being drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013, and after being dismissed from the University of Cincinnati's football team for marijuana use, Kelce took a telemarketing job. This position involved conducting phone surveys related to Obamacare, the affordable healthcare legislation introduced by President Barack Obama in 2010. Kelce earned $8 per hour while enduring angry calls from individuals who accused the government of stealing their money.
A Humble Beginning
During the podcast episode, which featured the cast of the sitcom "Workaholics"—a show about telemarketers—Jason Kelce humorously pointed out that there was another former telemarketer in the room. Actor Anders Holm then turned to Travis, who admitted his past role. "As fellow telemarketers, you know that you're reading an already pre-set script," Travis explained, before confessing his lack of skill in the job.
Kelce reflected on this period in a previous ESPN interview, noting that sitting in a cubicle for hours was a stark contrast to his athletic background. "All I had been doing is playing outside, playing sports my entire life," he said. "I had never sat down and tried to earn a living like that. That's not to hit on anybody's 9-to-5; that's just not for me." He added that this experience motivated him to focus on football, seeing it as a path to a better life.
Rise to Football Greatness
After returning to the University of Cincinnati, Kelce excelled in two standout college seasons, leading to his selection by the Chiefs as the 63rd overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. Over 13 seasons, he has established himself as arguably the greatest tight end in NFL history, winning three Super Bowls and setting numerous individual records.
Personal Life and Recent Developments
Beyond his football achievements, Kelce has gained widespread fame through his relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift, with the couple getting engaged in August 2025. Despite missing the playoffs in the 2025 season and planning a summer wedding, Kelce recently confirmed his return to the NFL for a 14th season with the Chiefs.
He signed a surprising three-year contract worth $54 million, potentially rising to $57.7 million, as reported by NFL Insider Ian Rapoport. The deal is structured to allow Kelce to retire after the 2026 season, with a $12 million salary for the upcoming year and up to $3 million in bonuses. If he chooses to continue playing beyond 2026, the terms are expected to be renegotiated.
This telemarketing chapter highlights Kelce's humble beginnings and serves as a reminder of his journey from a struggling job to becoming an NFL legend and global celebrity.
