Are the Kecle brothers redefining masculinity? Are we finally seeing a side to the NFL that we have never seen before? Over the past few years, the Kelce family has given us an inside look at their family dynamic. In a world where sports icons are typically idolized based off of their strength and toughness, it’s refreshing to witness people like Travis and Jason Kelce, NFL stars who are challenging the status quo by disassociating themselves from the toxic masculinity often associated with professional sports. We have grown to know them and love them, including their mother, otherwise known as “Mama Kelce”. Their family continues to gain more and more fame and with that the love of NFL fans all around the country. The Kelce family is breaking barriers in more ways than ever imaginable, especially with the recent news of Jason Kelce’s retirement and the rapid growth in popularity of their podcast.
Their podcast “New Heights”, has on many occasions gone viral for the raw and real content they provide for their viewers. This example in particular: https://www.tiktok.com/@yahoosports/video/7343314886539267374?lang=en&q=retirement%20kelce%20podcast&t=1712337027802 shows the Kelce brothers’ ability to be extremely vulnerable with millions of viewers watching and listening. This podcast clip specifically touches on Jason Kelce’s retirement which in it of itself is a vulnerable and emotional topic but, Travis takes it a step further himself speaking upon how his brother has inspired his career and how it will be hard to play/watch the games without his brother being a part of it all while getting emotional himself. It is a touching moment between two brothers who outside of their podcast are typically seen slamming into people with their tough, aggressive football-playing persona. We truly get a taste of who the Kelce brothers really are and most of all the importance of their family over everything. As they are constantly branching outside of the strictly sports content the two NFL men are doing it right. Not only will you grow to like them because of their skills on the field but off as well.
A few weeks ago we witnessed the official retirement of Jason Kelce, long-time Eagles center. And boy oh boy did we see those Kelce boys cry. Let’s be honest we were all crying with them. As someone who is not actively into sports and is strictly an Eagles fan by geographical association, this touched me in more ways than not. As I said before, the emotions were running high for the Kelce family around the time of Jason’s retirement but, we saw it all come to light at his official publicized retirement announcement. Travis who was sitting in the front row kept his sunglasses on the entire time but this did not hide the emotions that were so clearly hitting him right then and there. Jason Kelce himself can barely get out the three words, “I am retiring”, without bursting into tears and you cannot help but do the same. Within his announcement, Jason goes on to talk about not only his career but, his relationship with his brother, family, etc. This sensitive side to a family of two extremely tough and masculine players was extremely refreshing and heartwarming.
Both brothers have been constantly breaking down barriers that limit men’s emotional expression. By openly discussing their own struggles and vulnerabilities, they’ve helped create a more inclusive environment within the NFL, one that encourages players to be their authentic selves without fear of judgment.
If you want to read more about Kelce’s retirement or check out the brothers’ podcast here are a few links:
https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/jason-kelce-announces-his-retirement
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