Former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce made it known today that family always comes first as he came to the defense of his younger brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, during a heated exchange with a fan at Penn State.
Jason, who this year retired after a celebrated 13-season career with the Eagles, was in Happy Valley this weekend appearing on ESPN’s “College GameDay” in advance of the highly anticipated matchup between Ohio State and Penn State. Jason’s since transitioned into life post-football-working as a broadcaster and co-hosting the popular “New Heights” podcast with Travis-but he’s clearly not one to back down when it comes to defending his family.
It happened when Jason was on campus, walking around and taking the time to interact with fans. That interaction alone was captured in a viral video on social media. One fan, perhaps irate at the high level of attention placed by the NFL on Travis’ association with pop sensation Taylor Swift, took things too far. The heckler called out to Jason using a homophobic slur to insult Travis in connection to his high-profile relationship with Swift that’s been under a media microscope for the past year.
“Hey Kelce, how does it feel your brother’s a [expletive] dating Taylor Swift?” the heckler yelled.
For Jason, this was a bridge too far. He immediately stopped, turning to confront the fan. While it isn’t entirely possible from the video to make out precisely what was said in the ensuing exchange, it’s evident that Jason did not wish to allow the remark to go. In a flash of anger, Jason then reached over and seized the heckler’s phone before smashing it onto the ground.
Jason Kelce slams Penn State student’s phone on the floor after he shouts:
“Kelce how does it feel that your brother is a f****t for dating Taylor Swift?”pic.twitter.com/Mwr520YAsf— Complex (@Complex) November 2, 2024
The incident has brought on a slew of comments across social media sites, as the majority of fans applauded Jason for defending his younger brother. Many took to the posts to congratulate him for supporting Travis, who, though a fame on the field, has seen a wave of criticism from disgruntled fans since he and Swift gained media attention for their relationship. While many fans have taken well to the couple and enjoy the added drama, many others have voiced complaints since NFL broadcast coverage should be about the game itself and not Taylor Swift.
The NFL certainly has capitalized on the media frenzy, having cameras pan to Swift whenever she attends a Chiefs game. Some fans love the star power she brings to a game; others think it’s not all about football anymore. For Jason Kelce today, though, there was little question where his loyalty was going to be.
While the phone-smashing incident is an uncharacteristic move from Jason, normally known for his humor and light take on life, it also underlines great bonding between the Kelce brothers. As public figures who are no strangers to the pressures of fame, Jason and Travis quite often poke fun at themselves and each other on their podcast, and they’ve spoken on numerous occasions about how much they value their close relationship.
Social media has gone into a blaze of remarks by fans and fellow athletes alike, many of whom are standing in support of Jason. “When it comes to family, don’t mess with Jason Kelce,” one Twitter user posted poignantly. Others have pointed out how Jason’s reaction showed the very human side of the athletes-they have real feelings and family bonds they hold dear despite all their fame.
As for Travis, he hasn’t commented on the whole thing yet, but you can bet your bottom dollar that he appreciated his big brother’s instinct for protection. The bond is unbreakable when it comes to the Kelce brothers, and it certainly seems like, even in retirement, Jason isn’t one to stay quiet when somebody crosses a line.
In a sport where rivalries run deep and fans are known for their passion, Jason Kelce made one thing clear: some things transcend the game itself, and respect for the family is one of them.
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