As we approach the end of the college football season and prepare for bowl season, Sports Illustrated recently named Deion Sanders as their Sportsperson of the Year. However, many people feel that this honor should have gone to Travis Kelce instead. Sanders’ overhype and lack of success at Colorado, particularly on the recruiting trail, have raised questions about his long-term potential as a coach.
While Sports Illustrated has chosen unconventional winners in the past, such as Laurent Duvernay-Tardif and J.J. Watt, Kelce’s achievements and impact make him a deserving candidate. As a reigning Super Bowl champion with a vibrant personality, Kelce has made a name for himself both on and off the field. He even hosted Saturday Night Live and successfully pursued a relationship with Taylor Swift, proving that taking risks can pay off.
Kelce’s performance this year has been outstanding. He was the leading receiver in the Super Bowl, has been a regular target of Aaron Rodgers, and his podcast is highly popular. He faced his own brother in the Super Bowl, and his mother has become a celebrity. As the primary target for Patrick Mahomes, Kelce has consistently delivered, solidifying his status as one of the best tight ends in the game.
While Kelce is a strong contender for Sportsperson of the Year, there were other worthy candidates as well. Angel Reese, for example, made a significant impact in women’s basketball and symbolized the new opportunities provided by NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) policies. Reese rose to prominence after transferring from Maryland, defeated Caitlin Clark, and gained endorsements and recognition during the offseason.
Another potential contender is Jeremy Seese, a prominent figure in the world of NBA 2K. As a professional gamer, Seese has achieved remarkable success, leading the Warriors Gaming team to their first league championship and winning back-to-back championships with different teams. His achievements in the world of e-sports demonstrate the integration of artificial intelligence and sports, a theme that Sports Illustrated has embraced.
While Deion Sanders’ recognition as Sportsperson of the Year may have generated controversy, there were certainly other deserving candidates. Travis Kelce, Angel Reese, and Jeremy Seese have all made significant contributions to their respective sports and deserve recognition for their achievements. As we reflect on the college football season and look ahead to bowl season, let’s celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding athletes.
