Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Jason Kelce Gets Honored with Grand Gesture from NFL Legend

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Christian Alamodin | Last updated 3/15/24

It’s hard to deny that Jason Kelce is one of the most beloved icons in the NFL. His elite athleticism and talent revolutionized how the center position is being played, and his warm, no-frills personality endeared him to fans who can’t get enough of him.

The center enjoyed a legendary career that will likely place him in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in five years. However, tributes have already gone out for the legendary career that he had

One of the game’s most legendary quarterbacks even went out to of his way to honor Kelce with a grand gesture.

Drew Brees celebrates Jason Kelce by giving scholarships to walk-on athletes

In the latest episode of New Heights, Kansas City Chiefs TE talked to his brother about his retirement and his future plans now that he’s decided to hang up his cleats.

In the middle of their conversation, Travis surprised his brother with a grand gesture from Drew Brees, one of the best quarterbacks to ever play in the NFL:

.@drewbrees is honoring @JasonKelce‘s career by awarding 13 scholarships to college walk-on athletes. ️

(via @newheightshow) pic.twitter.com/5EqoEZIrqM

— NFL (@NFL) March 14, 2024

“In honor of Jason Kelce’s retirement and his 13 remarkable seasons, we at Walk-On’s are offering this heartfelt tribute. We are awarding 13 scholarships to college walk-on athletes across the country,” the legendary New Orleans Saints QB said.

Drew Brees is co-owner of Walk-On’s, a popular sports bar chain in Louisiana. They will be giving out the scholarships through the Walk-On’s Game On Foundation, which takes an active part in helping youth athletes grow.

Jason Kelce talks about being a walk-on

Jason Kelce is famously a walk-on at the University of Cincinnati, so it’s a huge honor for him that Brees decided to honor him in such a manner.

“It’s awesome. Listen, [I am] incredibly honored. Drew’s giving away 13 scholarships in honor of my walk-on career,” the future Hall of Famer said. “Dude, he’s just the man.”

He also talked about the pride you get when it comes to being a walk-on, that it stays with you even if you manage to reach the highest levels of professional football”

“Once you’re a walk-on, you’re always a walk-on, and it’s something that you wear with pride. Love that this is happening and we’re gonna give some more walk=ons an opportunity to realize their dreams.”

Kelce played all of his 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. Aside from his rookie season, he’s played at least 85% of the snaps he’s available for.