When Marquise Brown Decided to Listen to Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” Before Picking Up Chiefs Playbook

In a surprising and lighthearted moment recently shared by NFL wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, the Arizona Cardinals star revealed that before diving into his new responsibilities with his team, he made a rather unexpected decision—he listened to Taylor Swift’s hit song “Blank Space” first.

Brown, known for his electrifying speed on the field, gave fans a rare glimpse into his pre-practice routine during a recent interview. With the NFL season in full swing and the weight of his team’s playbook to digest, it might seem odd that Brown chose to start his day by pressing play on one of Swift’s most popular tracks.

A Moment of Humor and Relaxation

When asked about how he gets into the zone before facing the mental and physical demands of his sport, Brown revealed that he has a unique way of winding down. “I know it sounds funny,” Brown said with a smile, “but sometimes before I really dive into the playbook, I like to listen to a little Taylor Swift. ‘Blank Space’ is always a good pick. It helps clear my head. You can’t take everything too seriously, right?”

For those who don’t know, “Blank Space” is one of Swift’s signature hits, known for its catchy beat and playful lyrics about romantic relationships. The idea of an NFL wide receiver, known for his competitive edge and focus, opting for a Taylor Swift song before getting to work on his football playbook is both humorous and refreshing. It’s a reminder that even elite athletes need a break from the grind.

Why Taylor Swift?

Many might wonder why Brown, a professional athlete known for his focus and intensity on the field, would choose to unwind with a pop song instead of something more traditionally “game-focused.” For Brown, it’s all about balance. The pressures of being a top NFL receiver can be overwhelming, and sometimes it’s the small moments of enjoyment that can provide the mental clarity needed to tackle challenges ahead.

“I think sometimes you need that break—something that’s not football-related. For me, it’s just about resetting,” Brown shared. “Taylor Swift’s music has that ability to make me smile, and sometimes that’s exactly what I need before I dive into the intense stuff, like the playbook. It helps me relax and refocus.”

The Playbook: The Real Challenge Ahead

While Taylor Swift songs may offer a brief escape for Brown, the real challenge he faces comes when it’s time to study the Chiefs’ playbook (or any other team’s playbook, depending on the opponent). As a professional wide receiver in the NFL, Brown needs to memorize countless plays, routes, and strategies—tasks that require deep focus and commitment. And while “Blank Space” may be a fun distraction, it’s clear that Brown is all in when it comes to the serious side of his job.

“Once I get into the playbook, it’s all business,” he said. “I can’t take the game lightly. I know that every opponent is going to bring their best, so I have to be sharp and ready.”

A Glimpse into the Athlete’s Mindset

This lighthearted moment highlights a common theme among many professional athletes: the ability to blend focus with relaxation. While it’s easy to imagine top-tier athletes like Brown constantly living and breathing football, many of them find ways to mentally reset, keep their sanity, and stay grounded. Music, family, hobbies, and even moments of humor provide an essential balance that helps them excel in their careers.

For Marquise Brown, it’s clear that finding moments of joy, like enjoying a Taylor Swift song, is part of his process for staying mentally fresh and prepared to face the intense demands of the NFL season.

Conclusion: A Fun and Relatable Moment for Fans

Ultimately, Brown’s decision to listen to “Blank Space” before picking up the playbook isn’t just a funny anecdote—it’s a reminder that athletes are people too, with personalities, quirks, and preferences outside of their profession. It’s these moments that make them more relatable to fans, who often view them as larger-than-life figures.

Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan or not, it’s hard not to appreciate how Brown finds ways to stay balanced amid the chaos of an NFL season. Now, as he prepares for his next game, you can bet that his intense focus on the playbook will be combined with a little musical fun to keep things in perspective.