Jason Kelce’s journey to NFL stardom was never scripted for ease. Entering the 2011 draft, he logged a modest Production Score of 58-just 17th among offensive linemen. But what he lacked in polish, he made up for in raw physicality, ranking second in Athleticism Score at the Combine.
Despite being a sixth-round pick, his blend of grit and mobility hinted at what scouts couldn’t quantify: an unmatched work ethic and leadership that would define his 13-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles.
By the time Kelce retired in March 2024, he had not only become a six-time All-Pro and the franchise’s record holder for consecutive starts (145), but also the heart and soul of one of the league’s most elite offensive lines.
Retirement, however, didn’t signal a retreat from football-it opened the door to a media empire.
A legacy passed on and reinvented
Kelce’s influence is perhaps most visible in his successor, Cam Jurgens. Drafted in 2022 as Kelce’s heir, Jurgens benefited from more than just coaching-he had Kelce himself mentoring him through the nuances of the position.
That tutelage paid off. After anchoring a record-breaking rushing attack in 2024, Jurgens signed a four-year, $68 million extension, $39.4 million of it guaranteed-making him the NFL’s second-highest paid center.
Publicly, Kelce cheered Jurgens’ deal with the enthusiasm of a teammate and the pride of a mentor. Though he jokes about scouting, his eye for talent remains a quiet force in Eagles circles.
“It’s easy when Stout tells you who to watch,” he joked.
GM Howie Roseman has even hinted at wanting Kelce in the front office.
Off the field, Kelce’s transition into media has been nothing short of meteoric. He and brother Travis inked a $100 million deal with Wondery for their “New Heights” podcast. He’s a new face on ESPN’s “Monday Night Countdown” and even hosts his own late-night variety show in Philadelphia.
Though he’s traded pads for podcasts, Jason Kelce’s impact on the Eagles-and the NFL-isn’t fading. It’s evolving.
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