Jason Kelce's emotional retirement speech includes tear-inducing moment for brother Travis
An NFL legend, Philadelphia Eagles icon and big brother, Jason Kelce announced his retirement on Monday. An often-emotional farewell press conference felt like far more of a family affair than a business decision with Jason's younger brother, Travis Kelce, sitting nearby.
A speech peppered with instant classics was at its heart a long list of memories from Kelce's life around the NFL and football. There wasn't a dry eye in the house, especially from the two Kelces who have dominated this sport for over a decade.
As one brother walks away, the younger of the two sat nearby and dried his tears.
Legendary goodbye: Jason Kelce officially hangs 'em up: Eagles All-Pro center retires after 13 seasons in NFL
Travis and Jason Kelce's brotherly bond
Jason Kelce began collegiate football life as a walk-on at the University of Cincinnati, playing until 2010. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2011 draft.
Travis would follow his brother onto the Bearcat gridiron, playing from 2008-2012 at Cincinnati. It was his years following suspension over a positive marijuana test that have been well documented and highlight just one of the many aspects of their powerful brotherly bond.
Jason vouched for his brother, who at the time lost his scholarship and was suspended from the team. Then head coach Butch Jones remembers an older brother sticking by his family. He recalls Jason imploring Jones not to give up on Travis.
“Everybody talks about brotherly love and all that,’’ Jones said. “I have never been a part of a closeness and a bond like two brothers have like them.’’
Separated by just two years, the Kelces share a podcast, an unforgettable Super Bowl, and what is certainly a lifetime of memories that bind them together.
Both men were emotional on Monday, and it was hard not to get wrapped up in the feeling as well.
Instant reaction: Fans and media react to Jason Kelce's emotional retirement press conference