Podcasts > New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce > Jason on Retirement, Travis Down Under and Flaming Tables | Ep 80

Jason on Retirement, Travis Down Under and Flaming Tables | Ep 80

By Wave Sports + Entertainment

"New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce" delivers an intimate episode as Jason Kelce, joined by brother Travis, brings listeners along for his poignant retirement announcement from the Philadelphia Eagles. Jason Kelce shares the personal challenges that guided his decision, revealing insights into the physicality of the sport and the profound recognition of teamwork's significance in his journey. He extends thankfulness to those who've shaped his path, from teammates to staff, highlighting the essential unity within the team's fabric that he deems crucial for their continued success.

The episode navigates through Jason Kelce's storied 13-year tenure with the Eagles, exploring his unfaltering loyalty, memorable contributions, and the legacy he leaves behind—a rarity in today's professional sports landscape. As he contemplates life away from the field, Jason's forthcoming chapter appears as diverse and passionate as his football career, showcasing a life enriched with family, creative pursuits, and the shared love of the game with his brother and co-host, Travis. Listeners get to appreciate Jason's evolution from a burgeoning athlete to an established veteran, alongside his vision for a life filled with exploration and fervor post-retirement.

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Jason on Retirement, Travis Down Under and Flaming Tables | Ep 80

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Jason on Retirement, Travis Down Under and Flaming Tables | Ep 80

1-Page Summary

Kelce's retirement announcement and speech

In an emotional retirement announcement, Jason Kelce bids farewell as an Eagles center, emphasizing the physical challenges that prompted his decision and the importance of teamwork in football. During his heartfelt speech, he expresses gratitude toward everyone who influenced his career, including the janitors. Kelce likens his position to the sport's essence, recognizing the collaborative effort required for success. He also voices his appreciation for spending his entire career with the Eagles and concludes with confidence in the team's potential, anticipating a strong comeback in the 2023 season.

Kelce's career achievements and impact with the Eagles

Jason Kelce retires after a distinguished 13-year career with the Eagles, marked by loyalty and milestone achievements like the consecutive starts record and the Super Bowl LII victory. Kelce's commitment to the Eagles, often scarce in professional sports, reflects both his and the organization's dedication. His reliability is evident in his record for consecutive starts, contributing deeply to the team's offensive line. Recalling his role in the iconic Philly Special play during the Super Bowl LII win, Kelce cements his legacy in the annals of Philadelphia sports.

Reflecting on Kelce's career

Jason Kelce's career is crowned with growth and leadership, born from challenges and pivotal advice from coach Jeff Stoutland, who encouraged technique improvements. His journey from an uncertain rookie to a respected NFL veteran underscores his resilience and the critical role of close bonds with coaches and teammates. The shared memories, including those with his brother Travis and trainer Joe Apella, display the depth of relationships he forged, filled with shared experiences, humor, and respect.

Kelce's plans for retirement

As he approaches retirement, Jason Kelce looks forward to reducing his playing weight and dedicating more time to his family. His post-football life includes interests such as participating in his podcast, spending time with friends, and relishing new hobbies, like blacksmithing and crafting knives, demonstrating a zest for embracing life beyond the football field. His plans indicate a future rich with family engagement, new experiences, and the enjoyment of football as a fan.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Philly Special was a trick play executed by the Philadelphia Eagles during Super Bowl LII in 2018. It involved a unique formation where the quarterback initially acted as if he was calling an audible, then the ball was directly snapped to a running back who passed it to the quarterback for a touchdown. This play became iconic due to its boldness and successful execution in a critical moment of the game. The Philly Special play is remembered as a key highlight of the Eagles' victory in Super Bowl LII.
  • Jeff Stoutland is an American football coach known for his work as an offensive line coach and run game coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles. He has a background in coaching at various levels, including collegiate teams like the University of Miami and Michigan State. Stoutland's coaching career has been marked by success in developing players and overseeing offensive line performance.
  • Jason Kelce's brother, Travis Kelce, is a well-known NFL player who currently plays as a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. Travis is also a prominent figure in the NFL, known for his athletic prowess and achievements on the field. The Kelce brothers have a close relationship and have supported each other throughout their respective football careers. Travis Kelce has made a name for himself in the NFL with his skills and contributions to the sport.

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Jason on Retirement, Travis Down Under and Flaming Tables | Ep 80

Kelce's retirement announcement and speech

In an emotional retirement announcement, Jason Kelce bids farewell to his time as an Eagles center, reflecting on both the physical challenges that led to his retirement and the collaborative nature of the sport he loves.

Recounting key moments from the retirement speech

Jason Kelce detailed the journey to his retirement decision, making clear that the choice was entirely his, feeling more certain than in previous years. He addressed the physical challenges he faces, notably issues with his elbow and knees, stating his unwillingness to play unless he can meet his performance standards. Despite his passion for the sport, which includes the thrill of competition on game days and the camaraderie with teammates, the physical demands have taken their toll, making it too much to continue playing.

Kelce took time during his speech to acknowledge the many individuals he's grateful for, from teammates to staff members. He admitted that there are simply too many people to list who have impacted his career, but made it clear that everyone, even the janitor, has played a significant role in his life.

Reflecting on his role as a center, Kelce likened his position to the essence of football, showcasing the sport's inherent reliance on teamwork. He saw his role as creating conditions for other players to shine.

Jason Kelce also touched upon the rarity of an NFL player remaining with one team throughout their career. He recognized the many elements that have to align, from the organization's desire to retain a player to the financial considerations. Kelce expressed his gratitude for achieving his goal of spending his entire career with the Eagles.

Choosing to make his retirement announcement at the team's facility, Kelce wanted to be surrounded by members of the organization. His speech included his favorite moments, highlighted with notable shoutouts such as Coach ...

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Kelce's retirement announcement and speech

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Jason Kelce is a highly respected and accomplished player who has spent his entire career with the Philadelphia Eagles. As a center, he played a crucial role in the team's offensive line, responsible for snapping the ball to the quarterback and blocking opponents. Kelce's l ...

Counterarguments

  • While Kelce's retirement due to physical challenges is understandable, it could be argued that athletes often have access to top-tier medical care and rehabilitation options that might allow them to extend their careers, suggesting that retirement might be a choice rather than a necessity.
  • The emphasis on the collaborative nature of football is valid, but it's also true that individual talent and leadership can significantly impact a team's success, which might not have been highlighted enough.
  • Expressing gratitude is commendable, but it's possible that some individuals who played critical roles in Kelce's career were not mentioned, which could be seen as an oversight.
  • Spending an entire career with one team is rare, but this could also be viewed as a lack of opportunity or desire to explore different team environments and challenges.
  • Making the retirement announcement at the team's facility is a personal choice, but doing so publicly could also be seen as a way to garner more media attention or create a more dramatic exit.
  • Sharing humorous anecdotes is a way to lighten the mood, but some might argue ...

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Jason on Retirement, Travis Down Under and Flaming Tables | Ep 80

Kelce's career achievements and impact with the Eagles

Philadelphia Eagles' center Jason Kelce announces retirement after a remarkable 13-year tenure with the team, highlighting his loyalty, record-setting achievements, and iconic Super Bowl LII victory.

Playing entire 13-year career with one team

In the dynamic and often unpredictable world of professional sports, long-term loyalty is rare. Jason Kelce, however, has marked an impressive exception. As he officially retires, he reflects on the rarity and value of spending his entire 13-year career with a single team, the Philadelphia Eagles. This storied journey speaks volumes about both his dedication to the team and the organization's commitment to him, despite the ever-present factors that often displace players, such as organizational changes and financial impacts.

Setting consecutive starts record

Kelce's tenure with the Eagles is not just defined by its duration but also by his remarkable dependability as a player. His consecutive starts record is a testament to his resilience and consistency on the field, contributing significantly to the Eagles' offensive line throughout his career.

Winning Super Bowl LII

Making iconic Philly Special play

One of the defining moments of Jason Kelce's career was helping the Philadelphia Eagles secure their Super Bowl LII vi ...

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Kelce's career achievements and impact with the Eagles

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Philly Special play was a trick play executed by the Philadelphia Eagles during Super Bowl LII. It involved the quarterback lining up as if to receive the snap, then shifting to the side while the ball was directly snapped to another player who passed it to a third player for a touchdown. This play is iconic because of its creativity, timing, and success in a high-stakes game like the Super Bowl. Jason Kelce's involvement in this play added to its legend and contributed to the Eagles' historic victory.
  • The Philadelphia Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory in 2018 was a historic moment in the team's history, marking their first-ever Super Bowl win. The Eagles faced the New England Patriots in a closely contested game, ultimately emerging victorious with a final score of 41-33. The team's transformation that season was notable due to overcoming challenges, including the loss of starting quarterback Carson Wentz to injury late in the season, and rallying around backup quarterback Nick Foles, who delivered standout performances in the playoffs, culminating in the Super Bowl win. The victory was celebrated by Eagles fans as a long-awaited triumph and solidified the team's place in NFL history.
  • Kelce's consecutive starts record signifies the number of games he played in ...

Counterarguments

  • While Kelce's long-term loyalty is commendable, it's also possible that circumstances such as a lack of better offers or the right fit with other teams contributed to his entire career being with the Eagles.
  • Setting a consecutive starts record is impressive, but it could also suggest that the team may have lacked depth in his position, or that they were overly reliant on him, potentially to the detriment of developing other players.
  • The success of the Philly Special play in Super Bowl LII was a team effort, and while Kelce played a significant role, it's important to recognize the contributions of all players involved in that play.
  • Kelce's retirement speech may have highlighted the team's transformation, but it's worth noting that a single pl ...

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Jason on Retirement, Travis Down Under and Flaming Tables | Ep 80

Reflecting on Kelce's career

Jason Kelce’s retirement speech offers a heartfelt look into his career, his relationships, and the moments that shaped him as an NFL player.

Developing as player and leader

Overcoming early career challenges

Jason Kelce overcame significant challenges in his early career. He recalls the daunting experience of snapping the ball to quarterbacks like Michael Vick during his first year, a year complicated by the lockout which deprived him of an offseason to prepare. Revealing moments of vulnerability, Kelce admitted to playing poorly at the start of the 2016 season, to the point where there may not have been enough good tape to justify keeping him.

Yet, a pivotal point came after his sports hernia surgery when Kelce realized that the poor techniques he got away with in a tempo offense were then failing him, prompting a need for change.

Implementing coach Jeff Stoutland's advice

Jeff Stoutland's advice became a critical point in Kelce's development. Stoutland believed in Kelce's strengths despite his small size for a center and advised him to readjust his hand position to avoid being pushed back by larger defensive tackles. This emphasis on leverage using physics marked a significant improvement in Kelce's performance.

Building bonds with coaches and teammates

Reminiscing on shared memories and inside jokes

Travis Kelce reflects on Jason's impact, noting how Jason working with stars like Michael Vick reframed his own perceptions of attainability and success in the NFL. The brothers also shared reminiscences of their childhood, playing Super Bowls in the backyard and emulating sports figures like Jim Thome, Carlos Baerga, Jerome Bettis, and Brett Favre.

Jason Kelce acknowledges the many people who reached out during his retirement, hinting at the close relationships and memories they share. Specifically, he mentions trainer Joe Apella, who battled cancer and still strapped Kelce's ankles for the pr ...

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Reflecting on Kelce's career

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • During the NFL lockout in 2011, team activities, including offseason training programs and practices, were prohibited. This restriction affected players like Jason Kelce, who was unable to participate in organized team activities and receive coaching during his rookie year, impacting his preparation for the season. The lockout created challenges for rookies and young players adjusting to the professional level without the usual guidance and development opportunities provided by team activities.
  • After undergoing sports hernia surgery, Jason Kelce realized that the poor techniques he had been using were no longer effective. The surgery may have affected his physical abilities and movements, prompting him to reassess and improve his playing techniques. This experience highlighted the importance of proper technique in his position as a center in the NFL. The surgery served as a turning point in Kelce's career, leading to a significant adjustment in his approach to the game.
  • Jeff S ...

Counterarguments

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Jason on Retirement, Travis Down Under and Flaming Tables | Ep 80

Kelce's plans for retirement

Jason Kelce contemplates a future beyond the gridiron, speaking about shedding his playing weight, spending quality time with family, and exploring various new hobbies and experiences after his eventual retirement.

Shedding weight from playing weight

Jason Kelce talks about the end of his football career, a stage he describes as somewhat terrifying given that football has engulfed his life until now. He speaks about the need to figure out life beyond the turf, pointing out the podcast as a positive aspect of moving forward and the prospect of moving away from his current playing weight.

Spending time with family

Family emerges as one of Kelce's top priorities post-retirement. Travis Kelce has highlighted his brother's eagerness to watch his three children grow, indicating a deep-seated intention to devote more time to family interactions. Jason plans to go to the football facilities and support the team off-field, but additionally focuses on time at home, as suggested by his interest in learning from his wife's proficiency in electrical work.

Exploring new hobbies and experiences

Jason Kelce's retirement plans are peppered with leisure and learning. He relishes the thought of enjoying beverages with friends, such ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
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Kelce's plans for retirement

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Jason Kelce is a professional American football player who has played as a center for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. He is known for his exceptional skills on the field, including being a multiple-time Pro Bowl selection and a key player in the Eagles' Super Bowl win in 2018. Kelce is highly respected for his leadership, toughness, and dedication to the sport throughout his career.
  • Blacksmithing is the craft of shaping and forging metal using heat and tools like hammers and anvils. Creating a samurai sword involves intricate processes like folding and tempering the metal to achieve a sharp and ...

Counterarguments

...

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