Jason Kelce‘s trading his NFL jersey for a new kind of uniform-an America First business venture. The retired Philadelphia Eagles star launched his clothing line, Underdog, featuring T-shirts and sweatshirts made entirely in the U.S. The timing couldn’t be hotter-Donald Trump‘s trade war is in full swing, with new tariffs slapping 25% on imports from Mexico and Canada, and 10% on Chinese goods, rattling global markets.
“I have no issues with global trade whatsoever,” Kelce told the New York Times, stressing that his move isn’t political. “There’s some really awesome reasons to support homegrown American businesses,” the 37-year-old added, doubling down on his passion for domestic production.
Kelce, who hung up his cleats in 2024 after 13 seasons, is no stranger to big plays-his New Heights podcast with brother Travis Kelce pulls in 2 million listeners weekly, per Spotify data. Now, he’s channeling that energy into Underdog, emphasizing quality and American manufacturing. “The most satisfying part is that the clothing is completely made in America,” he shared, noting the line’s focus on durable, comfy tees and sweatshirts.
Social media users are loving it-“Kelce’s Underdog brand is peak America First!” one fan tweeted-while others see it as a smart move amid Trump’s “Make America Great Again” agenda, which aims to boost U.S. jobs through tariffs.
Kelce goes America First with new clothing brand launch
Trump’s trade policies have sparked debate-his 200% tariff threat on John Deere if production shifts to Mexico shows his hardline stance, but it’s driven up costs for imported goods, per The Wall Street Journal. Kelce’s Underdog sidesteps that mess by keeping production stateside, from cotton to stitching.
“Kelce’s playing it smart with Underdog-tariffs are a nightmare,” an X user noted, referencing retail price hikes. The line, set to hit Underdog’s website in May 2025, starts at $45 for tees and $79 for sweatshirts, per Kelce’s team.
The former center, a 2018 Super Bowl champ with six first-team All-Pro nods, knows how to win fans-he even called Trump’s 2024 Eagles-Steelers game visit “awesome,” staying neutral despite the political heat. “It’s a quiet rebellion against fast fashion,” an X user praised, tying Underdog to Kelce’s push for quality over convenience. With his NFL legacy-drafted by the Eagles in 2011-and new entrepreneurial gig, Kelce’s proving he’s a force on and off the field.
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