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Jason Kelce

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Jason Daniel Kelce (/ˈkɛlsi/ KEL-see;[1] born November 5, 1987) is an American former professional football center who spent his entire 13-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL). Kelce played college football for the Cincinnati Bearcats and was selected by the Eagles in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL draft. He won Super Bowl LII, was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection, and six-time first-team All-Pro selection. Kelce is often regarded as one of the greatest centers in NFL history.[2][3][4]

Key Information

Outside of football, Kelce and his brother, Travis, co-host the podcast New Heights, on which they discuss their playing careers and various other topics. In November 2024, Apple announced that New Heights was the 8th most popular podcast show on Apple Podcasts in 2024.

In 2024, Kelce joined ESPN's Monday Night Countdown pregame crew.

Early life

[edit]

Kelce was born and grew up in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, the son of Ed Kelce, a sales representative in the steel business, and Donna (née Blalock), who works in banking. He is the older brother of Travis Kelce, a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. In their January 2025 podcast, the Kelce brothers revealed their Croatian background;[5] both their maternal great-grandmother and grandmother were born to parents of Croatian descent.[6]

Jason attended Cleveland Heights High School, where he played both running back and linebacker and was twice named All-Lake Erie League.[7] At Cleveland Heights, he played baritone saxophone in the symphonic and jazz bands.[8] Kelce also played hockey and lacrosse in high school.[9][10]

College career

[edit]

A former walk-on running back, Kelce switched to fullback and then finally to offensive line after redshirting his initial year at the University of Cincinnati (UC),[11] seeing action at center and guard in nine games in 2007 as the Bearcats went 10–3 and defeated Southern Mississippi 31–21 in the PapaJohns.com Bowl.[12][13]

As a sophomore in 2008, he made 13 starts at left guard, as part of an offensive line that also included future NFL linemen Jeff Linkenbach and Trevor Canfield, which helped the UC offense average 27.3 points and 375.3 yards of total offense per game. The Bearcats went 11–3 overall, were Big East Conference champions, and played in the FedEx Orange Bowl, where the Bearcats fell to Virginia Tech 20–7.[14][15] In 2008, his brother, Travis, began playing alongside him at Cincinnati.[16]

In 2009, Kelce earned second-team All-Big East honors after starting 13 games at left guard as the Bearcats went undefeated in the regular season (12–0) and were again Big East Champions, once again earning a BCS Bowl berth, losing to Florida 51–24 in the Allstate Sugar Bowl.[17][18]

He was moved to center for his senior season in 2010 as the Bearcats went 4–8 under new coach Butch Jones.[19][20] He started the final 38 games of his 47-game Bearcats career, 26 at left guard and 12 at center.[7] He was named Honorable Mention All-America and second-team All-Big East.

Professional career

[edit]

Despite lacking true NFL size, Kelce was projected a fourth round pick.[21] He ran the fastest 40-yard dash time of all offensive linemen at the 2011 NFL Scouting Combine, with a 4.89-second time.[22] On March 11, 2011, Kelce had an appendectomy after he was diagnosed with appendicitis.[23]

Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump
6 ft 2+58 in
(1.90 m)
280 lb
(127 kg)
32+12 in
(0.83 m)
9+12 in
(0.24 m)
4.89 s 1.70 s 2.83 s 4.14 s 7.22 s 30+12 in
(0.77 m)
9 ft 2 in
(2.79 m)
All values from 2011 NFL Scouting Combine[24]
Kelce with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2013

Kelce was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round (191st overall) of the 2011 NFL draft.[25] Kelce was unable to practice or sign a contract until the NFL lockout was lifted on July 25, 2011. He signed a four-year contract on July 27.[26] New offensive line coach Howard Mudd envisioned Kelce as in the mold of Indianapolis Colts five-time Pro Bowl center Jeff Saturday, whom Mudd coached in Indianapolis for 11 seasons.[27] First-round pick and fellow rookie Danny Watkins compared Kelce to a hedgehog due to his spiky hair and facial hair, in addition to his quickness and stoutness.[28] Kelce battled incumbent starter Jamaal Jackson for the center job early in training camp in August.[29] Kelce received all of the first-team reps in the week before the team's third preseason game.[30] He started in the third preseason game against the Cleveland Browns, and allowed a sack and was penalized for holding.[31] Kelce was named the starter for the season on August 29.[32] He became the first rookie in Eagles history to start all 16 games at center.[33]

In 2012, Kelce was named the starting center for the second consecutive year. On September 16, he suffered a partially torn MCL and a torn ACL in a win over the Baltimore Ravens. Kelce would miss the rest of the 2012 season.[34] In the 2013 season, Kelce started all 16 games. The Eagles reached the playoffs, and set team season records of 442 points and 6,676 yards. He led the way for the NFL's leading rusher, LeSean McCoy, who rushed for 1,607 yards. Kelce was graded by Pro Football Focus (PFF) as the best center in the NFL for the season.[35] He was also honored with the Ed Block Courage Award.[33]

On February 27, 2014, Kelce agreed to a six-year, $37.5 million contract extension, with $13 million guaranteed, according to agent Jason Bernstein.[36] On September 23, Kelce underwent surgery for a sports hernia and missed four games.[7] Despite missing time, he was selected to his first Pro Bowl.[37] He followed his 2014 Pro Bowl campaign by starting in all 16 games in 2015. He was graded by PFF as the 7th-ranked center in the NFL.[38] The next season, he started in all 16 games and was selected to his second Pro Bowl.[39][40]

Kelce prepares to snap the ball to Eagles' quarterback Carson Wentz in a 2017 game against the Washington Redskins.

In 2017, Kelce started in all 16 games and had his best season as a professional. He was selected as a First-team All-Pro and was the highest rated offensive lineman by PFF. He also won Run Blocker of the Year by PFF.[41] He won Super Bowl LII with the Eagles, defeating the New England Patriots 41–33.[42] During the Eagles' Super Bowl parade on February 8, 2018, Kelce garnered national attention after giving an impassioned speech where he defended his teammates, coaches, and front office and compared Eagles fans to hungry dogs who "for 52 years have been starved of this championship,"[43] while dressed as a mummer. In 2018, Kelce was given his second First-team All-Pro honor.

On March 2, 2019, Kelce signed a one-year contract extension with the Eagles through the 2021 season.[44] During the 2019 season, Kelce was elected to his third Pro Bowl and received his third straight First-team All-Pro Honor. In 2020, Kelce started his 100th straight game with the Eagles. The offensive line saw a franchise-record 14 different starting combinations, but Kelce was the lone man to start every game. He was elected to his 4th Pro Bowl, and was one of the eight finalists for the Art Rooney Award in 2020.[45]

On March 5, 2021, Kelce signed a new deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.[46][47] He was placed on the COVID list on January 3, 2022, and activated four days later, allowing him to keep his consecutive starts streak alive.[48][49] He went in for the team's first offensive snap then was benched for the rest of the game. In 2021, Kelce was selected to his fifth Pro Bowl, marking his third straight selection, and was the Eagles finalist for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.[50] He was also named a first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press for the fourth time in his career.[51] He was ranked 71st by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2022.[52] On March 11, 2022, after mulling retirement before the 2022 offseason, Kelce signed a new one-year deal with the Eagles worth $14 million, which made him the highest paid center in the NFL.[53] Kelce earned Pro Bowl and first team All-Pro honors for the 2022 season.[54][55]

Kelce on the sideline with Eagles teammates, 2023

Kelce appeared in his second Super Bowl with Super Bowl LVII against the Kansas City Chiefs. Kelce's brother, Travis, played for the Chiefs, making it the first Super Bowl to feature two brothers on opposing teams as players.[56] The Eagles would lose the game 38–35.[57] After considering retirement, Kelce re-signed with the Eagles on a one-year contract on March 15, 2023.[58] In Week 6, Kelce broke the Eagles record for most consecutive starts that was previously held by Jon Runyan. He received his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection and First Team All-Pro honors that year as well.[59] Kelce ended the season starting all 17 regular season games as the Eagles finished with a record of 11–6 and earned a playoff berth. He and the Eagles ended their season with a 32–9 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Wild Card playoff game.[60]

Kelce announced his retirement on March 4, 2024.[61] During his career, Kelce was named to seven total Pro Bowls and six first-team All Pros, making him one of the most decorated offensive linemen in NFL history. All six of his All-Pro selections were accomplished in his 30s, giving him the most All-Pro selections of any player in their 30s. He is one of just two centers in league history to make both the Pro Bowl and be named an All-Pro in three consecutive seasons along with Dwight Stephenson of the Miami Dolphins.[2]

Awards and honors

[edit]
Kelce, dressed as a mummer, gives a speech at the Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory parade

NFL

[edit]

College

[edit]
  • 2× Second-team All-Big East (2009, 2010)

Other ventures

[edit]

Along with then-teammate Beau Allen, Kelce appeared in the Super Bowl LII-themed two-part episodes of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, "Charlie's Home Alone" and "The Gang Wins the Big Game" as Charlie Kelly's blood-loss hallucination.[62] On March 4, 2023, Jason appeared on Saturday Night Live (SNL) when Travis was that episode's host, and appeared as both an audience member with his parents and in a sketch with his brother and SNL cast members Heidi Gardner and Chloe Fineman.[63][64]

In September 2022, Kelce and his brother, Travis, launched a weekly podcast called New Heights. In the podcast, they discuss the NFL as well as each other's games. The show also features occasional guest stars.[65][66]

During the 2022 NFL season, Philadelphia-based studio 9.14 Pictures filmed and produced the feature-length documentary Kelce, examining Kelce's football career and private life. The documentary was released on Amazon Prime Video on September 11, 2023.[67] Within 24 hours of its release, Kelce became the No. 1 most watched movie on Prime Video in the United States.[68] On November 9, 2023, Kelce joined Al Michaels and Kirk Herbstreit in the commentary booth during the live broadcast of the Week 10 NFL game between the Chicago Bears and the Carolina Panthers on Thursday Night Football, broadcast on Prime Video.[69]

Along with Eagles teammates Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, Kelce formed the vocal group The Philly Specials and collaborated on the Christmas album A Philly Special Christmas, which was released in December 2022.[70] A sequel, A Philly Special Christmas Special, was released in December 2023.[71] A third and final album, A Philly Special Christmas Party, was released in December 2024.[72]

On April 6, 2024, Kelce and former Eagles teammate Lane Johnson (wearing Luchador masks) participated in WrestleMania XL, helping Rey Mysterio and Andrade win their match. The event was held in Philadelphia at Lincoln Financial Field.[73]

On April 29, 2024, it was announced that Kelce would join ESPN's Monday Night Countdown.[74]

On November 21, 2024, while a guest on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Kelce announced he will host a late-night sports talk show on ESPN called They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce. The show debuted on January 4, 2025.[75]

Personal life

[edit]

Kelce is the elder son of Ed and Donna Kelce and brother of Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.[76] Ed Kelce was a sales representative in the steel business. Donna Kelce has a master's degree, and has worked in banking at Mastercard, and then with banks building housing for the less fortunate using low-income tax credits.[10] Donna Kelce is known for attending both of her sons' games and is often seen wearing a two-sided jersey featuring both of their numbers. She traveled from Tampa to Kansas City to attend both of her sons' Wild Card round games on January 16, 2022.[77]

Kelce met his wife, Kylie McDevitt, on Tinder.[78] They were married on April 14, 2018. They have four daughters, born in October 2019, March 2021, February 2023, and March 2025. Kylie was 38 weeks pregnant with their third child at the time of Super Bowl LVII.[79][80][81][82]

In 2023, Kelce was a finalist in People's "Sexiest Man Alive" list.[83]

During the 2021 offseason, Travis Kelce said their immediate family pronounces their last name /ˈkɛlsi/ KEL-see because that is the way their father pronounces it, although the rest of the paternal side of the family pronounces it /kɛls/ KELSS.[84] Jason elaborated that their father "at some point ... got tired of correcting everyone calling him 'Kell-see.' ... And now I think we're both at the point where we're riding with Ed 'Kell-see.'"[85]

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2023 Kelce Self [86]

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2018 It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Self [87]
2023 Saturday Night Live [88]
2024 Abbott Elementary [89]
2024 Jeopardy! Clue giver [90][91]
2024 Jeopardy! Masters [92]
2024 Jimmy Kimmel Live! [93]
2025 They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce [94]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Jason Kelce (born November 5, 1987) is an American former professional football center who played his entire 13-season career with the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL), retiring in 2024 after earning one Super Bowl championship, seven Pro Bowl selections, and six First-Team All-Pro honors.[1][2][3] Born in Greenville, North Carolina, and raised in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, Kelce attended the University of Cincinnati, where he walked on to the football team and became a standout offensive lineman before being selected by the Eagles in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft.[4][5] Over his NFL tenure, Kelce started all 193 regular-season games he appeared in, anchoring the Eagles' offensive line during their Super Bowl LII victory in 2018 and establishing himself as one of the league's premier centers with his intelligence, toughness, and leadership, including six seasons as a team captain.[1][6] Following his retirement announcement on March 4, 2024, at the Eagles' NovaCare Complex, Kelce transitioned into broadcasting and media, joining ESPN as an analyst on Monday Night Countdown and hosting the late-night sports talk show They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce, which premiered on January 4, 2025.[6][7][8][9] Kelce is also known for co-hosting the popular podcast New Heights with his younger brother, Travis Kelce, a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, which has amplified their family's prominence in American sports culture.[10] In his personal life, Kelce has been married to Kylie Kelce (née McDevitt) since 2018; the couple has four daughters—Wyatt (born 2019), Elliotte (born 2021), Bennett (born 2023), and Finnley (born March 30, 2025)—and resides in Pennsylvania.[11][12][13][14] Kelce's parents, Ed and Donna Kelce, raised him and Travis in a supportive environment that emphasized hard work and family, contributing to their shared success in the NFL.[11]

Early life

Birth and family background

Jason Kelce was born on November 5, 1987, in Greenville, North Carolina, to parents Ed and Donna Kelce. The family relocated to Cleveland Heights, Ohio, shortly after his birth.[4] Ed Kelce built a successful career in the steel industry as a sales representative, while Donna Kelce worked for over 30 years in banking, advancing to senior vice president roles at financial institutions in northeast Ohio before retiring in 2021.[15][16] Kelce grew up alongside his younger brother, Travis Kelce, who was born on October 5, 1989—just 23 months later—and the siblings shared a competitive yet supportive childhood marked by frequent outdoor play and family activities in their Cleveland Heights home.[11] In January 2025, the brothers publicly revealed their Croatian heritage on their podcast, with Travis confirming their ancestral ties to the village of Vele Drage in the Gorski Kotar region, where family roots extend back at least seven generations.[17] The Kelce family's athletic inclinations provided early exposure to sports for Jason; Ed coached his sons in youth T-ball, coach-pitch baseball, and football, constructing backyard practice areas, while the vibrant sports environment of greater Cleveland—home to professional teams like the Browns and Cavaliers—further nurtured their passion from a young age.[18][19]

High school career

Jason Kelce attended Cleveland Heights High School in Cleveland, Ohio, where he graduated in 2006 as a three-sport athlete, participating in football, basketball, and hockey. In football, he excelled as both a running back and linebacker, serving as team captain during his senior season and earning All-Lake Erie League honors twice for his performance on the field. His involvement in basketball and hockey further highlighted his versatility, with Kelce playing as a defenseman on the hockey team during his freshman year, contributing to the school's athletic tradition in multiple disciplines.[4][20][21][22] Beyond athletics, Kelce demonstrated musical talent by playing the baritone saxophone in the school's marching band, jazz band, and symphonic winds ensemble, balancing his commitments across extracurricular activities. This multifaceted engagement reflected his dedication to school life, as he navigated the demands of rigorous training in multiple sports alongside band performances.[23][24] Despite his standout high school achievements, Kelce faced initial challenges in college recruitment, receiving no scholarship offers from Division I programs upon graduation. Opting against lower-division opportunities, he chose to walk on to the football team at the University of Cincinnati in 2006, driven by a desire to compete at the highest level near home.[21][25][26]

College career

University of Cincinnati

Jason Kelce joined the University of Cincinnati Bearcats as a walk-on in 2006 after a high school career at Cleveland Heights High School where he played running back and linebacker, earning all-league honors but receiving limited recruiting attention. Initially positioned as a linebacker, he redshirted his freshman year and earned scout team defensive player of the year honors while adjusting to college football. The arrival of head coach Brian Kelly in December 2006 marked a pivotal shift, as Kelly's spread offense required more agile offensive linemen; Kelce transitioned to the offensive line during the 2007 offseason, challenging for starting center duties and appearing in nine games that season in a backup role.[27] Kelce's progression accelerated in 2008, when he earned a scholarship and started all 13 games at left guard for a Bearcats team that finished 11-3 and Big East Conference champions with a 6-1 league record.[28] His contributions helped anchor an offensive line that supported an average of 27.3 points and 375.3 total yards per game, including eight games with a rusher exceeding 100 yards. The following year, 2009, Kelce started all 13 games again at left guard, contributing to Cincinnati's undefeated regular season (12-0 overall, 7-0 in Big East play) and securing the program's first outright conference title since 1976; the offense set school records with 40.8 points and 455.4 yards per game, culminating in a Sugar Bowl appearance.[29][30][31][32] In his senior season of 2010, Kelce moved to center and started all 12 games, providing stability amid a transitional 4-8 campaign for the Bearcats. Over his entire college tenure, he appeared in 47 games, starting the final 38 contests—26 at left guard and 12 at center—solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the offensive line during Cincinnati's most successful Big East era under Kelly. Key performances included protecting quarterback Tony Pike in high-stakes conference wins, such as the 2009 24-21 victory over West Virginia and a 2008 victory over Pittsburgh (28-21), which helped establish team benchmarks for conference dominance with back-to-back unbeaten Big East seasons in 2008 and 2009.[33][34][35]

Academic and athletic achievements

During his time at the University of Cincinnati, Jason Kelce pursued a bachelor's degree in marketing, completing his coursework in 2010 though he received his diploma in a ceremonial presentation in 2024.[36][37] Kelce's athletic achievements highlighted his development as an offensive lineman, earning second-team All-Big East honors in both 2009 and 2010 after transitioning from guard to center in the latter year.[38][39] In 2009, he started all 13 games at left guard, contributing to the Bearcats' undefeated regular season (12–0) and their appearance in the Sugar Bowl.[40] His consistent performance helped anchor the offensive line during the 2008–2010 seasons under coaches Brian Kelly and Butch Jones, supporting the team's back-to-back bowl berths including the 2009 Sugar Bowl.[41]

Professional career

Philadelphia Eagles tenure

Jason Kelce was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round, 191st overall, of the 2011 NFL Draft out of the University of Cincinnati.[1] As a rookie, he earned the starting center position during training camp, displacing veteran Jamaal Jackson, and started all 16 regular-season games, though he faced early challenges adjusting to the NFL level, including a holding penalty and struggles against stronger defensive tackles in preseason play.[42] [43] In 2012, Kelce's second season, he suffered a full tear of the MCL and a partial tear of the ACL in his right knee during Week 2 against the Baltimore Ravens, causing him to miss 14 games and undergo season-ending surgery.[44] He returned fully in 2013 under new head coach Chip Kelly, starting all 16 games and anchoring an offensive line that supported a league-leading rushing attack, marking his breakthrough as a consistent starter.[45] From 2013 onward, Kelce solidified his role as the Eagles' center, missing four games in 2014 due to sports hernia surgery before starting every game from 2015 through the 2023 season and becoming a cornerstone of the team's offensive identity. Kelce played a pivotal role in the Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory over the New England Patriots in 2018, starting all 16 regular-season games and all four playoff contests, where the offensive line, led by his precise snapping and blocking, protected quarterback Nick Foles effectively, including on the iconic "Philly Special" trick play.[1] The Eagles returned to the Super Bowl following the 2022 season (Super Bowl LVII), with Kelce serving as a vocal leader on the offensive line, starting all games and guiding a unit that ranked among the NFL's best in pass protection and run support during the regular season. Over his 13-season tenure, Kelce appeared in 193 games, starting all of them, and recorded zero fumbles lost, underscoring his reliability at the center position.[1] [46] Kelce earned seven Pro Bowl selections during his career (2014, 2016, 2019–2023), highlighting his sustained excellence and recognition as one of the league's top centers in those seasons.[47] Beyond statistics, Kelce's gritty, no-nonsense style and deep connection to Philadelphia's blue-collar ethos profoundly influenced team culture, fostering resilience and unity among players, while his passionate post-Super Bowl LII parade speech—delivered in a Mummers costume—cemented his status as a fan favorite, embodying the city's unapologetic spirit and boosting fan engagement.[47] [48]

Retirement

On March 4, 2024, Jason Kelce announced his retirement from the NFL after 13 seasons, delivering an emotional 41-minute speech at a press conference held in the auditorium of the Philadelphia Eagles' NovaCare Complex.[6] In his address, he reflected on the highs and lows of his career, expressing deep gratitude to his family—including his wife Kylie and daughters—teammates, coaches, and the passionate Philadelphia fanbase, while emphasizing how the city and the Eagles had shaped his identity.[49] Kelce appeared emotional throughout, at times pausing to compose himself, and concluded by affirming his enduring love for the game despite the difficult decision.[50] Kelce explained that the primary reasons for his retirement were the mounting physical toll after 13 grueling seasons, including lingering injuries that had accumulated over years of high-level play, as well as a growing awareness of his responsibilities to his young family and an eagerness to pursue interests outside of football.[51] At age 36, he stated that his body no longer allowed him to perform at the elite level he demanded of himself, noting, "The physical portion is at a point that it's not a desire to continue to do."[52] He also highlighted family considerations, such as spending more quality time with his daughters, as a key factor in timing his exit after the 2023 season.[53] The announcement sparked immediate and heartfelt tributes from across the NFL, with teammates like Lane Johnson and Fletcher Cox praising Kelce's leadership and selflessness in emotional social media posts and interviews.[54] Philadelphia fans gathered outside the facility, chanting his name and donning No. 62 jerseys in a show of appreciation, while media coverage universally lauded the speech as one of the most poignant in recent sports history.[55] Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie issued a statement calling Kelce "irreplaceable" and hinting at future honors, fueling discussions about retiring his No. 62 jersey, a move widely supported by the organization and fanbase.[50] In the ensuing months of 2024, Kelce maintained close ties with the team, attending training camp sessions to interact with players and offer informal advice during his transition out of active play.

Awards and honors

Collegiate honors

During his time at the University of Cincinnati, Jason Kelce earned second-team All-Big East honors in 2009 as a left guard, recognizing his consistent performance in starting all 13 games and contributing to the Bearcats' offensive line stability.[56] In 2010, Kelce transitioned to center and again received second-team All-Big East recognition for his offensive line play, starting 12 games and anchoring a unit that facilitated key team successes.[57] These selections highlighted his development as a versatile interior lineman in the Big East Conference. Additionally, at the team's postseason banquet, Kelce was awarded the John Pease Outstanding Offensive Lineman honor, underscoring his value to the Bearcats' offensive front.[58]

Professional accolades

Jason Kelce earned widespread recognition as one of the NFL's premier centers during his 13-year tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles, highlighted by a Super Bowl victory and consistent individual honors. He was a pivotal contributor to the Eagles' Super Bowl LII championship in 2018, starting all 16 regular-season games and both playoff contests en route to the team's first Super Bowl win in franchise history.[1][3] Kelce was selected to seven Pro Bowls, spanning the years 2014 through 2019 and 2023, tying him for the sixth-most selections among centers in NFL history.[59] His exceptional performance also garnered six First-team All-Pro honors from the Associated Press in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023, along with one Second-team All-Pro nod in 2014, establishing him as the only center in the Super Bowl era to achieve six First-team selections while also winning a championship.[3][60] In addition to these individual achievements, Kelce was named a second alternate for the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team at center, reflecting his sustained excellence over the decade. Throughout his career, he demonstrated remarkable durability, retiring as the Eagles' all-time leader in snaps played by a center with over 10,000 offensive snaps across 193 starts.[1] This longevity underscored his career-long consistency as a foundational piece of Philadelphia's offensive line.[61]

Post-NFL career

Media and entertainment

Following his retirement from the NFL in March 2024, Jason Kelce transitioned into media roles that leveraged his football expertise and charismatic personality. This shift allowed him to expand his broadcasting presence, beginning with established projects and leading to new on-air opportunities. Kelce co-hosts the weekly sports podcast New Heights alongside his brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, which launched in September 2022 and has grown into one of the most popular shows in its genre.[62] The podcast features discussions on NFL games, player insights, and off-field topics, with notable episodes including interviews with celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio del Toro in September 2025, as well as analyses of major events like the NFL Draft.[63] In 2024, New Heights ranked second among Apple's most followed podcasts overall, behind only The Joe Rogan Experience, reflecting its rapid ascent driven by the brothers' fame and a multi-year partnership with Wondery valued at over $100 million.[64] In 2025, it continued its success, reaching No. 1 on Apple Podcasts' Top Shows Chart in the United States in August.[65] In May 2024, Kelce joined ESPN as an analyst on Monday Night Countdown, the network's flagship pregame show for Monday Night Football, appearing weekly alongside host Scott Van Pelt and analysts Marcus Spears and Ryan Clark.[66] His debut occurred in September 2024, where he provided breakdowns of matchups and drew on his 13-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles to offer insider perspectives.[67] Expanding his ESPN role, Kelce began hosting They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce on January 4, 2025, a five-episode late-night talk show airing Fridays during the NFL playoffs on ESPN and streaming platforms.[68] The series, taped in Philadelphia, blends comedy, sports talk, and celebrity interviews; the premiere featured guests Charles Barkley, Lil Dicky, and Brian Baldinger, focusing on Eagles history and playoff previews.[69] Subsequent episodes included NFL stars and musicians, emphasizing Kelce's humor and Philadelphia roots.[70] Beyond broadcasting, Kelce has engaged in entertainment projects that highlight his musical and on-screen talents. He contributed vocals to The Philly Specials, a holiday supergroup with Eagles teammates Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, releasing three Christmas albums: the debut A Philly Special Christmas in December 2022, followed by A Philly Special Christmas Special in 2023, and A Philly Special Christmas Party on November 22, 2024. These charity-driven records feature original songs and covers like "White Christmas," blending rap, rock, and Eagles-themed humor.[71] Kelce was the subject of the 2023 documentary Kelce, directed by Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, which chronicles his 2022-23 NFL season, family life, and retirement deliberations.[72] Premiering on Amazon Prime Video in August 2023, the film became the platform's top original documentary, praised for its intimate portrayal of Kelce's career crossroads.[73] Kelce has made several TV cameos, including as himself in the 2024 episode of Abbott Elementary alongside teammates Jalen Hurts and Lane Johnson, and earlier appearances in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia during Super Bowl LII-themed episodes in 2018.[74][75] He also starred in the 2020 short film Stealing a Survivor and appeared in the 2025 comedy short Brewmite II with Travis Kelce and others.[76] In January 2026, during an appearance on 94WIP Sports Radio, Kelce discussed the Philadelphia Eagles' upcoming matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, advocating for increased usage of running back Tank Bigsby to complement Saquon Barkley despite his limited opportunities, and commented on the teams' rivalry, stating that the 49ers developed hatred toward the Eagles after previous matchups, particularly resenting the injury to quarterback Brock Purdy, while asserting that the Eagles would have won even with Purdy playing due to their strong defense and effective run plays against 49ers linebackers like Fred Warner.[77][78][79]

Philanthropy

Jason Kelce has been actively involved in philanthropy, particularly supporting autism research and community initiatives in Philadelphia, both during and after his NFL career. His efforts are centered on the Eagles Autism Foundation, which he has supported through personal fundraising events since 2021.[80][81] A cornerstone of Kelce's charitable work is the Team 62 Fundraiser, launched in 2021 to benefit the Eagles Autism Foundation's programs for autism research and care. The initiative, named after his jersey number, has raised over $2.4 million to date, funding innovative therapies and support services for individuals with autism. In 2025, the fifth annual event held at Ocean Drive in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, set a record by generating more than $1 million, with Kelce personally participating in celebrity bartending and engaging attendees to boost donations.[80][82][83] Kelce's annual events under the Team 62 banner include the Beer Bowl, a lively gathering featuring his signature beer-serving antics, and the Kelce Beach Bash, a family-friendly beach event with Eagles teammates. These are complemented by the Shore Birds fundraiser, which in 2025 also contributed significantly to the $1 million total through community participation and performances. Kelce and his wife, Kylie, collaborate closely on these efforts, emphasizing awareness and direct impact on autism programs. This focus stems from personal family connections to autism advocacy.[84][85][83] Beyond autism initiatives, Kelce founded the (Be)Philly Foundation in 2021 to support evidence-based charities in Philadelphia, providing grants for education and youth development programs. He has also participated in various Eagles-related community events, such as food drives and youth outreach, extending his involvement from his playing days into retirement.[86][87] In November 2025, Kelce collaborated with the Philadelphia Eagles on a limited-edition apparel collection through his Underdog Apparel brand. The "Eagles and Underdog Artist Series" included tees and sweatshirts designed by local Philadelphia artists, inspired by the team's Kelly Green era, and was sold exclusively in Eagles Pro Shops starting November 14, 2025. Proceeds supported Kelce’s (Be)Philly foundation, promoting education initiatives in Philadelphia public schools. This partnership highlighted Kelce's continued influence on Eagles branding and community engagement following his retirement.[88][89]

Business ventures

Endorsements

Throughout his NFL career, Jason Kelce secured several endorsement deals with prominent brands, leveraging his reputation as a durable and charismatic center for the Philadelphia Eagles. He partnered with Old Spice for personal care product promotions, appearing in advertisements that highlighted his rugged persona.[90] Similarly, Kelce endorsed Campbell's Soup through campaigns emphasizing family-friendly meals, and Tide detergent via spots showcasing everyday laundry challenges faced by athletes.[91] Additional collaborations included Accelerator Active Energy drinks, where he promoted the beverage's performance benefits, and Buffalo Wild Wings, featuring humorous commercials tied to game-day experiences.[92] These partnerships, often renewed annually, contributed significantly to his off-field income, estimated in the millions during his playing years.[93] Following his retirement in March 2024, Kelce's endorsement portfolio expanded, capitalizing on his heightened visibility from media appearances and family fame. In September 2024, he signed a $2.4 million, two-year deal with Marriott Hotels, specifically Courtyard by Marriott, as the brand's first "Fanbassador." This role involves promotional campaigns, including videos and events, to engage NFL fans through loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy.[94][95] Post-retirement, he continued involvement in Eagles-affiliated promotions, such as a Buffalo Wild Wings campaign contemplating an NFL comeback, which produced viral content reinforcing his fan connection.[96] Kelce has also embraced branded merchandise tied to his "Philly Special" persona, particularly through the annual A Philly Special Christmas project with former teammates Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson. This initiative includes limited-edition apparel, vinyl records, plush toys, and greeting cards, with 2024 and 2025 releases featuring collectible plush dolls of the trio for holiday sales.[97][98] These efforts not only promote Eagles-themed holiday cheer but also amplify Kelce's personal brand on social media, where his authentic, humorous posts drive engagement for sponsor ads and drive sales.[99] His NFL legacy has been instrumental in securing these high-profile deals, enhancing his transition to a multifaceted public figure.[100]

Investments

Jason Kelce has expanded his business interests through joint ventures with his brother, Travis Kelce, particularly in the beverage and sports sectors. In June 2024, the brothers became the largest investors in Garage Beer, an Ohio-based light beer brand founded in 2018, marking their first collaborative ownership stake in a consumer product company.[101] This investment propelled the brand's growth, leading to a strategic funding round in September 2025 that valued Garage Beer at approximately $200 million, with the Kelces' involvement credited for boosting national distribution and marketing efforts.[102] Building on this success, Garage Beer, under the brothers' co-ownership, acquired a partial stake in the St. Joseph Goats, a professional indoor football team in the Arena League, in May 2025. This move represented the Kelces' entry into sports franchise ownership, aimed at integrating the beer brand with live events and community engagement in the Midwest.[103] The investment aligns with their strategy to leverage personal branding for empire expansion beyond football.[104] Kelce's involvement in media extends to the New Heights podcast, co-hosted with Travis since 2022, which secured a multi-year distribution and ad-sales deal with Amazon's Wondery in August 2024 valued at over $100 million.[105] The agreement includes rights to merchandise, produced in partnership with Homage, an apparel brand in which the brothers invested in October 2024 alongside figures like Kevin Durant.[106] Homage serves as the official merchandise provider for New Heights, focusing on sports-themed apparel that has driven additional revenue streams.[100] Post-retirement, Kelce has pursued real estate ventures in the Philadelphia area, consolidating properties to create a family compound in Haverford, Pennsylvania. In 2025, he expanded a $4 million estate acquired earlier, merging adjacent lots for enhanced privacy and security, despite local zoning disputes.[107] These holdings, totaling around $6.8 million, reflect his focus on long-term local investments.[108] Through these off-field opportunities, including podcast deals and equity stakes, Kelce's net worth has grown to an estimated $60 million as of 2025, bolstered by endorsement revenues that fund further investments.[109]

Personal life

Marriage and family

Jason Kelce met his future wife, Kylie McDevitt, on the dating app Tinder in 2015.[110] The couple married on April 14, 2018, at the Logan Hotel in Philadelphia, with approximately 170 guests in attendance, including their Irish wolfhound, Winnie.[111][112] Kelce and his wife have four daughters: Wyatt Elizabeth (born October 11, 2019); Elliotte Ray (born March 20, 2021); Bennett Llewellyn (born February 20, 2023); and Finnley Anne (born March 30, 2025).[13][113][12] The family resides in the affluent Philadelphia suburb of Haverford, where they have created a compound from adjacent properties to accommodate their growing household.[114][115] Throughout Kelce's NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles, he and Kylie balanced the demands of professional football—including travel and training—with family responsibilities, often prioritizing home-cooked meals and quality time together after games.[116] Following his retirement in March 2024, Kelce has embraced a more hands-on role in daily family life.[117] The Kelce family name is pronounced "KEL-see," a pronunciation adopted publicly by Jason and his brother Travis, though the family's traditional enunciation is closer to "Kels."[118] They share traditions such as cutting down a Christmas tree together and passing down personalized ornaments from Kelce's mother, Donna, to mark each holiday season with the children.[119] In contrast to Jason's family of six, his brother Travis maintains a child-free lifestyle focused on his own career and relationship.[120]

Public image and interests

Jason Kelce has cultivated a distinctive public image as a Philadelphia icon, embodying the city's passionate and unfiltered sports culture through memorable acts of fan engagement. His shirtless celebration during Super Bowl LVII in 2023, while supporting his brother Travis's Kansas City Chiefs against the Philadelphia Eagles, became a viral symbol of his exuberant loyalty and willingness to immerse himself in the game's intensity, drawing widespread admiration for bridging rival fanbases.[121] Similarly, during the 2024 AFC Divisional playoff game between the Chiefs and Buffalo Bills, Kelce went shirtless again, chugging beers with fans and even helping a young Bills supporter meet Taylor Swift, further solidifying his reputation as an approachable everyman who transcends team affiliations.[122][123] Kelce's hobbies reflect a blend of athletic pursuit and artistic expression, often tied to his personal history and community events. He frequently participates in golf outings, including charity events with fellow Eagles alumni, where he has shared lighthearted moments on the course post-retirement.[124] Music, particularly the saxophone, holds a special place; Kelce played the instrument as a child and revived the skill publicly in 2018 by performing with the Philadelphia Orchestra at a team event.[125] In May 2024, he received a $7,000 saxophone as a retirement gift during a charity golf tournament organized by the Vincera Institute, and by September 2025, he surprised Baltimore Ravens fans by joining their marching band on baritone saxophone during a Monday Night Football game, earning praise for his impromptu performance.[126][127] Kelce's community ties underscore his pride in diverse heritages and regional sports loyalties. In January 2025, he and his brother Travis revealed their Croatian ancestry on their "New Heights" podcast, tracing roots to at least seven generations in the village of Vele Drage in Gorski Kotar, Croatia, which sparked excitement among Croatian media and fans.[17] Despite hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Kelce has expressed strong support for both Cleveland's underdog sports ethos—likening it to Philadelphia's—and the latter's demanding fan culture, crediting Philly's intense media scrutiny for pushing teams to excel.[128][129] Kelce has made thoughtful public statements on mental health in sports, social issues, and post-retirement work-life balance, often drawing from personal vulnerability. His March 2024 retirement speech, delivered through tears over 40 minutes, highlighted the emotional challenges of leaving the game, serving as a lesson in emotional intelligence for athletes navigating identity beyond football.[130] On social issues, he issued a public apology in November 2024 after using a homophobic slur in response to a heckler, acknowledging the harm and committing to better conduct, which underscored his awareness of language's impact in public settings.[131] Regarding work-life balance after retiring, Kelce has described his transition as feeling "zero different" initially, with continued routines like weightlifting at the Eagles facility, though he anticipates post-retirement depression setting in and has admitted to physical struggles from the mental shift.[132][133][134]

References

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