Fame and fortune might seem like the dream life, but for NFL players, it’s starting to come with some serious downsides—like having your home targeted by organized burglars while you’re busy winning games. Recent high-profile burglaries at the homes of Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and other athletes have put the league on high alert.
In response, the NFL just dropped a major security warning, urging players to tighten up their defenses and think twice about what they’re posting online. Let’s break down what’s happening, how these criminals pull it off, and what the league does to keep its players safe.
A String of High-Profile Burglaries
The NFL’s latest security alert follows a disturbing series of burglaries involving its players. Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were among the victims, with their homes burglarized while they were away for games. Mahomes reported stolen jewelry worth $100,000, including his 2019 Super Bowl jersey, while Kelce lost $20,000 in cash during the same incident.
Similar crimes have also targeted players from other leagues. Milwaukee Bucks’ Bobby Portis had his home burglarized during a game, losing several prized possessions. Notably, police believe Portis was home during the break-in, making the crime even more unsettling. The FBI and other agencies are investigating whether these incidents are linked to a transnational crime syndicate.
Organized Thieves and Their Sophisticated Methods
The NFL’s memo warns that these are not random burglaries but the work of organized and skilled criminal rings. These groups use public records to locate athletes’ residences and team schedules to plan their crimes. Social media posts have also played a significant role, as players unknowingly reveal their locations and absences. This calculated approach has made the burglaries harder to prevent.
Law enforcement officials note that the burglars carefully observe athletes’ online activities and use advanced methods to enter homes. This includes exploiting vulnerabilities such as unguarded rear entrances and targeting unoccupied homes.
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Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword
One key recommendation in the NFL’s advisory is for players to exercise caution on social media. Posting about travel plans, expensive purchases, or even casual location updates can give criminals a roadmap to their homes. The league emphasizes the importance of stricter privacy settings and avoiding posts that signal when homes are empty.
Recently, Sauce Gardner of the New York Jets faced backlash for a social media slip-up involving a leaked direct message, highlighting how public figures’ online activities can have unintended consequences. For athletes, such mistakes can translate to serious security risks.
Proactive Security Measures for Players
To counter these threats, the NFL has urged players to implement stronger home security measures. Recommendations include installing security cameras, alarm systems, and automated lights to give the illusion of occupancy. Players are also encouraged to monitor their properties during game days and ensure that someone is present to deter potential break-ins.
The NFL’s efforts extend beyond advice. The league has distributed the memo to team security directors and the players’ union, stressing the importance of vigilance. This proactive approach is aimed at protecting not only players’ assets but also their peace of mind.
A Growing Concern Across Sports Leagues
While the NFL has been proactive, this trend is not limited to football. Athletes in the NBA, such as Minnesota Timberwolves and Milwaukee Bucks players, have also fallen victim to these burglaries. Bobby Portis’ case, where similarities were noted with the Mahomes and Kelce incidents, underscores the widespread nature of the issue. The timing of the crimes—often during games—suggests a pattern. Criminals are exploiting athletes’ predictable schedules and the public’s awareness of their engagements.
Also Read: Expensive Item Stolen From Travis Kelce’s Mansion In Kansas City Has Been Found In Rhode Island
