Former Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Jason Kelce has reportedly agreed to a deal with ESPN that will have him join Monday Night Countdown during the NFL season. Kelce, who also co-hosts the New Heights podcast with his brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, had discussed potentially working in sports media in the past.
Dan Le Batard believes that Kelce could have landed any job that he wanted to, especially becoming more famous late in life and with his brother dating award-winning singer and songwriter Taylor Swift. Aside from his stellar play on the field, which resulted in seven Pro Bowl appearances and a Super Bowl championship, Kelce’s podcast and fandom have augmented his standing in the media landscape.
“I will tell you this is a fascinating thing to watch in the media age when the athletes come for all of the great jobs and have their own brands,” Le Batard said on Tuesday’s episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz. “Jason Kelce has turned himself into what’s going to be the most powerful offensive lineman voice there’s been since John Madden? Since whatever it is – Art Donovan? You don’t get to be famous as one of these offensive lineman.”
Le Batard expressed that the signing was great for both Kelce and ESPN, referring to him as someone who will be “an obvious star, a beer-belly every man on your football telecast.” Additionally, he asserted that the role is going to elevate his profile and have him become more known to football fans and viewers from around the country.
