Kayla Nicole Posts Cryptic Instagram After Travis Kelce’s Engagement to Taylor Swift

Kayla Nicole, the former long-term partner of NFL star Travis Kelce, offered a quiet yet powerful response after news broke of his engagement to Taylor Swift.

Rather than directly addressing the announcement, Nicole reposted a video from Tracee Ellis Ross on her Instagram Story—the actress spoke about choosing “joy over happiness,” emphasizing that joy “is something you earn and work for” and calling it a “perspective” that allows growth beyond fleeting moments.

Layers Behind the Words

The video itself was impactful, but the text Nicole added made the moment resonate even more deeply: “Read about this very concept years ago in a book called ‘Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough’. I aspire! So so good.”

For those aware of her public breakup in 2022 and the emotional toll of constant media scrutiny, the post reads less like ambiguity and more like a gentle declaration of resilience.

Reflecting on a Very Public Split

Nicole and Kelce’s on-and-off five-year relationship ended in 2022, months before his high-profile courtship with Taylor Swift began.

She has previously spoken about how the breakup—played out under public eyes—impacted her sense of self. Describing social media as a “battlefield,” Nicole revealed how regular posts could spiral into painful commentary linking her to Kelce’s new romance. Yet she’s also been gracious toward Swift, calling her “very talented” with “no bad blood.”

Personal Growth in the Spotlight

By referencing joy as something earned, Nicole reframes her narrative. It’s a path from past heartache toward a grounded, self-empowered future.

She’s done more than respond—she’s chosen an attitude that stands in harmony with her own journey. For someone navigating comparisons to a global superstar, statements like this become powerful acts of agency.

What Comes Next for Kayla Nicole

At 33, Nicole is carving a life independent of media comparisons. With the public reshaping its gaze to Swift and Kelce’s romance, she appears ready to step away from the spotlight’s emotional tumult.

Her message shows she’s choosing peace, self-worth, and forward momentum—values she can hold regardless of the headlines.

You might also want to read: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Are Now Officially Engaged!