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Speculation is swirling around New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner and acclaimed rapper Ice Spice after the NFL player’s recent social media activity hinted at a potential romantic connection between the pair. The buzz began Monday as Gardner’s latest online posts fueled relationship rumors with the Grammy-nominated artist. Fans and followers are keenly observing this developing story as both personalities remain prominent figures in their respective domains.
Sauce Gardner’s Instagram Post Sparks Ice Spice Romance Speculation
Gardner’s Instagram carousel showcased several images of him in New York City, one of which featured the 24-year-old athlete standing in front of a matte grey Rolls-Royce.
Company in Photos Ignites Fan Frenzy
However, it was his companion in the photos that truly captured the attention of fans and ignited speculation. The series of images prominently featured the hip-hop artist, Ice Spice, notably in one shot where she appeared to be opening the passenger door of the luxury vehicle.
New York Jets star Sauce Gardner sparked rumors of a romance on Instagram this week
The cornerback shared a series of photos featuring himself and rapper Ice Spice (right)
The Grammy-nominated artist replied, ‘1,’ in the comments as fans went wild
Ice Spice’s Comment Further Fuels Relationship Talk
Adding fuel to the fire, Gardner tagged Ice Spice in the Instagram post. Ice Spice, a Bronx native, further fanned the flames by commenting ‘1’ – a clear reference to Gardner’s jersey number.
The social media post sent Gardner’s vast following of 1.1 million into a frenzy, with many followers questioning if the duo were publicly announcing their relationship.
Past Public Appearances Hint at Budding Connection
Prior to this recent post, observations of Gardner and Ice Spice together had already fueled dating rumors. In February, a TikTok video inadvertently captured them on an escalator, accompanied by Ice Spice’s security detail. Furthermore, reports circulated of their joint attendance at Druski’s ‘Coulda Been Love’ YouTube series premiere and the prestigious 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party in March.
Taylor Swift Friendship Adds Intrigue
Adding another layer to the unfolding narrative is Ice Spice’s close friendship with pop superstar Taylor Swift, who is famously in a relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. Ice Spice has been seen alongside Swift at numerous NFL games to support Kelce.
Ice Spice Spotted with Taylor Swift at NFL Games
She notably joined Swift and Este Haim when entering Caesars Superdome for February’s Super Bowl and was also present at Allegiant Stadium the previous year to witness Kelce and the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory. This connection to Swift and Kelce further intertwines the worlds of NFL and celebrity gossip around Ice Spice.
Taylor Swift was flanked by Ice Spice and Este Haim during the Super Bowl in February
Possible Jets Allegiance for Rapper Ice Spice?
Interestingly, Ice Spice seems to have shown support for Gardner and the Jets, reportedly attending a New York game last season. The Jets, including Gardner, faced a challenging season in the previous year, particularly after quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ injury. Rodgers’ departure from the team occurred in February, coinciding with the appointment of new head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey, marking a period of significant change for the New York Jets franchise.