Chiefs TE Travis Kelce (Image Credit: Getty Images)
Travis Kelce is one of the NFL’s best tight ends, but his journey almost ended before it began. Back in 2010, he got suspended from the University of Cincinnati football team after testing positive for marijuana.

Now, as a two-time Super Bowl champion, Kelce looks back at that rough patch as the wake-up call he needed. Here’s how one bad decision nearly cost him everything- and how he turned his life around.

The College Scandal That Nearly Ruined Travis Kelce’s Career

During Super Bowl Opening Night in New Orleans, Kelce reflected on the controversy that derailed his early career. He openly admitted that his suspension from the Cincinnati Bearcats was entirely his own doing.

“I think it was a very emotional and meaningful thing that happened to me back in college, and I brought that all on myself,” Kelce stated.

Travis Kelce was suspended after a night in New Orleans before the 2010 Sugar Bowl. He failed a drug test for marijuana and was immediately removed from the team. His future in football became uncertain despite his potential. The toughest part for him was how it affected his family.

“I think it was just me not living up to my family’s expectations, and that was probably the biggest thing. Bringing negativity to them was probably the hardest part for me,” Kelce admitted.

A Wake-Up Call For Travis Kelce

Kelce has since been vocal about how that experience changed his outlook on life and football. He previously shared more details on the Bussin’ With the Boys podcast in 2023.

“I partied a little too much down there [New Orleans], got hit with a drug test, and from that point on, I realized I’ve got to tighten the f*** up,” he said.

The moment forced him to reassess his priorities. He could either let the mistake define him or use it as motivation to turn his life around. Kelce chose the latter.