Jason Kelce

Jason Kelce – Life, Career, and Famous Quotes

Jason Kelce (born November 5, 1987) is an American football legend known for his durable and high-level play as a center for the Philadelphia Eagles. Explore his life, career, legacy, and memorable quotes in this complete biography.

Introduction

Jason Kelce is one of the most celebrated centers in NFL history. Over a 13-year career entirely with the the Philadelphia Eagles, he earned multiple All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors, played a pivotal role in a Super Bowl victory, and became a beloved figure both on and off the field. Since retiring in March 2024, Kelce has transitioned into media roles, including TV commentary and hosting.

But beyond the statistics and accolades, what makes Kelce compelling is his underdog mentality, his unfiltered voice, and the way he embraced Philadelphia’s gritty spirit. His journey offers rich lessons in perseverance, integrity, and authenticity—traits that continue to resonate with fans long after the final snap.

Early Life and Family

Jason Daniel Kelce was born on November 5, 1987 in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. He is the son of Ed Kelce, a sales representative in the steel business, and Donna (née Blalock), who worked in banking and later in community housing programs. Jason is the older brother of Travis Kelce, a star tight end in the NFL.

Growing up in a sports-minded household and in Northeast Ohio, Jason attended Cleveland Heights High School, where he played football (at linebacker and running back) and also participated in band (baritone saxophone), hockey, and lacrosse. Though he was a solid high school player, he was not a highly recruited star coming out of high school.

On his mother’s side, Kelce has Croatian roots: his maternal great-grandmother and grandmother were of Croatian descent.

Youth and Education

Kelce’s path to the top was not linear. He joined the University of Cincinnati as a walk-on. Early in his Cincinnati career, he redshirted, moved from running back to fullback, and eventually transitioned to the offensive line—playing guard and center in successive seasons.

At Cincinnati:

• In 2008, he started 13 games at left guard.

• In 2009, he was second-team All-Big East at left guard.

• For his senior year in 2010, he moved to center and earned honorable mention All-America and second-team All-Big East honors.

Over his college career, he started 47 games (26 at guard, 12 at center) and gained respect for his versatility and toughness.

Career and Achievements

Entry into the NFL

Despite concerns about size and projections, Kelce impressed at the NFL Scouting Combine—he ran one of the fastest 40-yard dash times among offensive linemen. He was drafted in the 6th round, pick 191, in the 2011 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.

He signed in July 2011 and quickly earned the starting center role, becoming the first rookie in Eagles history to start all 16 games at center.

Rising Through Challenges

In 2012, Kelce suffered a torn MCL and ACL and missed the rest of the season. He recovered and returned to start every game in 2013, helping the Eagles offense set franchise records in yardage and scoring. Over time, he became one of the most consistent and highly graded centers in the league, often praised by Pro Football Focus (PFF).

In 2017, Kelce had a breakout All-Pro season and helped anchor the Eagles line en route to their Super Bowl LII victory over the New England Patriots.

During the Super Bowl parade, Kelce delivered an impassioned speech, defending his teammates, coaches, and the fans—comparing Eagles fans to hungry dogs starved for a championship for 52 years.

Sustained Excellence

Throughout his career, Kelce amassed numerous accolades:

• 7× Pro Bowl selections (2014, 2016, 2019–2023)

• 6× First-team All-Pro honors (2017-19, 2021-2023)

• Durable and consistent: he started every game from 2013 onward, often ranking among the top centers in analytical grading.

• He earned multiple contract extensions, eventually becoming one of the highest-paid centers late in his career.

In 2023, he broke the Eagles record for most consecutive starts at his position.

Retirement and Post-Playing Career

On March 4, 2024, Jason Kelce officially announced his retirement after 13 seasons with the Eagles, tearing up during his lengthy speech. He walked away as one of the most decorated and respected centers in NFL history, with 205 games started including postseason work.

Immediately after retiring, Kelce entered the media realm:

• He joined ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown in 2024 as part of the pregame crew.

• He also launched and hosts a late-night show on ESPN, They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce, debuting January 2025.

• Alongside his brother Travis, he continues to co-host the podcast New Heights, launched in 2022.

• His work in media has already earned acclaim: Kelce received a solo Sports Emmy nomination for his on-air presence.

Historical Milestones & Context

Kelce’s story sits within a broader NFL narrative of celebrating underdogs and valuing character as much as raw physical tools. While many linemen of his size were overlooked, Kelce’s rise from walk-on to elite center echoes classic stories of grit and perseverance.

His 2018 Super Bowl win came at a time when the Eagles were reshaping their identity: bold, outspoken, and embracing a blue-collar mentality. Kelce embodied that spirit. His emotional speech in the parade became iconic in Philadelphia lore.

Furthermore, Kelce’s transition into media mirrors a modern trend: star athletes leveraging personalities to extend influence beyond the playing field. His podcast “New Heights” and subsequent television roles bridge sports and cultural conversation, making him relevant even after retirement.

Legacy and Influence

Jason Kelce leaves behind a multifaceted legacy:

1. On-field excellence: He is routinely cited among the greatest centers in NFL history, thanks to his durability, consistency, and high-level play across his career.

2. Voice and authenticity: Kelce is admired for speaking his mind—whether defending teammates or criticizing commentary. His authenticity resonated with fans.

3. Cultural bridge: He helped bring more attention to linemen roles, which often go unsung. His media presence elevates conversations about football strategy, player health, and the human side of the game.

4. Mentorship and inspiration: Younger players, especially undrafted or undervalued ones, look to Kelce’s career as proof that work ethic and resilience matter.

5. Philanthropy and family values: Outside football, Kelce’s life—raising children, engaging in media, and staying grounded—shows a balanced model of success.

Personality and Talents

Kelce is known equally for his on-field ferocity and off-field charisma.

• Competitor: He often described the game in emotional terms. One quote:

  “The reality is, it’s a hard game physically, and the older you get, the competitor in you and the player in you obviously want to keep playing…”

• Outspoken presence: He isn’t afraid to challenge narratives or defend teammates. That boldness added to his public appeal.

• Communicator: The success of his podcast and media roles underscores his communication skills and ability to connect across audiences.

• Family man: He met his wife, Kylie McDevitt, via Tinder; they married in April 2018. They have four daughters (as of 2025).

Kelce has joked and spoken about his graying beard, family life, and the joys/challenges of fatherhood in his public forums.

Famous Quotes of Jason Kelce

Here are several notable quotes that reflect his mindset, philosophy, and voice:

1. “I entered the University of Cincinnati as a walk-on … I had no stars, no investment from the team or the coaches. I’d have to earn everything.”

2. “I didn’t want to play at a smaller school … I think I’m good enough to f*ckin’ do that. I’m gonna go do that.”

3. “Don’t wait for the perfect moment, take the moment and make it perfect.”

4. “We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.”

5. “The reality is, it’s a hard game physically, … the older you get, the competitor in you … want to keep playing …”

These quotes capture his emotional approach to challenge, his belief in seizing opportunity, and his humility about starting from underdog status.

Lessons from Jason Kelce

• Earn your place: Kelce never relied on reputation or projections. He felt he had to battle for every snap, a mindset that kept him sharp.

• Embrace adversity: From injuries to doubts about his size, Kelce confronted challenges head-on. That resilience defined his career.

• Speak your truth: Whether addressing mistakes, defending others, or being frank about expectations, Kelce’s voice has been part of his power.

• Balance identity: Post-football, he showed how to pivot purpose while maintaining authenticity—moving from athlete to communicator without losing the core of who he is.

• Lead with heart: His public speeches (notably after Super Bowl LII) display a rare mixture of emotion, conviction, and loyalty.

Conclusion

Jason Kelce’s path—from a walk-on college player to one of the greatest centers in NFL history—is a story of grit, conviction, and heart. He defied odds, became a champion, and then redefined purpose beyond the field. His legacy continues through his media work, his influence on younger players, and the voice he gave to the underrepresented trenches of football.

If you’re inspired by his story, dive deeper into Kelce’s podcast New Heights, watch his post-game commentary, or revisit his speeches. There’s much wisdom in his journey—on perseverance, identity, and the power of showing up authentically.