Travis Kelce Defends Harrison Butker Amidst Backlash over Commencement Speech

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has come to the defense of kicker Harrison Butker, who has faced criticism for comments he made during a commencement speech at a Catholic college.

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has voiced his support for teammate Harrison Butker, who has been under fire for remarks made during a commencement speech at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas.

Speaking on the latest episode of the "New Heights" podcast with his brother, former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, Travis expressed his admiration for Butker as a person and teammate.

"I've known him for seven-plus years, probably eight-plus years. And I cherish him as a teammate," Kelce said of Butker, whom he refers to as "Harry."

"I think Pat [Mahomes] said it best, where — he is every bit of a great person and a great teammate. He's treated friends and family that I've introduced to him with nothing but respect and kindness, and that's how he treats everyone."

Butker has found himself in the spotlight since his speech on May 11, in which he touched upon his Catholic beliefs and views on various social issues, including abortion and the LGBTQ community. His comments sparked controversy, with some criticizing him for expressing his religious perspectives in a public setting.

However, Kelce emphasized that while he may not agree with all of Butker's views, he believes it is inappropriate to judge him based on his religious beliefs.

"When it comes down to his views and what he said at the St. Benedictine's commencement speech, those are his. I can't say I agree with the majority of it or just about any of it, outside of just him loving his family and his kids, and I don't think that I should judge him by his views, especially his religious views, of how to go about life," Kelce said.

Kelce acknowledged that he was raised by two working parents and appreciates the diversity of family structures.

"My mother and my father both provided for our family. And both my mother and my father made home what it was. So they were homemakers, and they were providers, and they were unbelievable at being present every single day in my life. And I think that was a beautiful upbringing for me," he said.

"Now, I don't think everyone should do it the way my parents did, but I certainly and sure as hell thank my parents and love my parents for being able to provide and making sure that home was what it was," he added.

Jason Kelce echoed his brother's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of family dynamics.

"I don't think we have enough people talking about the foundations of families and the importance of and the seriousness of parenthood," Jason said. "If you are going to embark on being a parent, I do think it needs to be the most important thing in your life."

Despite the backlash, Butker has received support from several teammates, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes and wide receiver Justin Watson. The Chiefs organization has also defended Butker's right to express his religious beliefs.