April 02, 2025 – Jason Kelce, the beloved former center of the Philadelphia Eagles, has sent shockwaves through the NFL community with a surprising announcement: he’s open to returning to the league for the 2025 Super Bowl, but not as a player. The seven-time Pro Bowl selection and Super Bowl LII champion, who retired in March 2024 after 13 stellar seasons, revealed on his podcast New Heights, co-hosted with his brother Travis Kelce, that he would consider a comeback in a different role under one very specific condition. This news comes on the heels of the Eagles’ dominant 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX on February 9, 2025, and has sparked widespread speculation about what Kelce’s potential return could mean for the team’s future. Let’s dive into the details of Kelce’s statement, his storied career, and the implications of his possible return.
Jason Kelce’s Shocking Revelation
During the latest episode of New Heights, recorded on March 31, 2025, Jason Kelce discussed his retirement and the Eagles’ recent Super Bowl triumph, which he celebrated at the team’s parade on February 14. While reflecting on his mixed emotions watching his former team defeat his brother Travis and the Chiefs, Kelce dropped a bombshell. “I’m at peace with my decision to retire, but if the Eagles need me for the 2025 Super Bowl, I’d come back—not as a player, though,” Kelce said. “I’d do it in a different role, maybe as a coach or advisor, but only under one condition: they’d have to be facing the Chiefs again. I’d love to be part of another Kelce Bowl, but from the sidelines this time.”
This statement has ignited excitement among Eagles fans, who have long revered Kelce as one of the franchise’s greatest players. The idea of another “Kelce Bowl”—a Super Bowl matchup between the Eagles and the Chiefs, featuring the Kelce brothers on opposing sides—has already happened twice, in 2023 and 2025, with each team winning once. Kelce’s condition adds a layer of intrigue, as it hinges on a rematch that would pit him against his brother Travis once more, albeit in a new capacity.
A Legendary Career with the Eagles
Jason Kelce’s legacy with the Philadelphia Eagles is nothing short of extraordinary. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft out of the University of Cincinnati, Kelce quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Eagles’ offensive line. Over his 13-year career, he started 193 games, the second-most in franchise history, and earned seven Pro Bowl selections and six first-team All-Pro honors. Kelce was the heartbeat of the Eagles’ offensive line during their Super Bowl LII victory in 2018, a moment forever etched in Philadelphia sports history. His iconic speech at the victory parade, delivered while dressed as a Mummer, remains one of the most memorable moments in Eagles lore.
Kelce’s impact extended beyond the field. Known for his leadership and football IQ, he was instrumental in the success of the Eagles’ famed “tush push” play, a short-yardage strategy that became a hallmark of the team’s offensive identity. His durability was remarkable—Kelce started every game in his final nine seasons, even battling through injuries and a bout with COVID-19 in 2022. When he retired in March 2024, Kelce left behind a legacy as one of the greatest centers in NFL history, with many expecting him to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer.
Life After Retirement: Broadcasting and Beyond
Since retiring, Kelce has remained deeply connected to the NFL. In May 2024, he signed a deal with ESPN to join the Monday Night Countdown pregame crew, a role that has allowed him to stay involved in the game he loves. His debut as a broadcaster at Lincoln Financial Field in September 2024 was a celebratory affair, with former teammates like Fletcher Cox and Nick Foles joining him on stage. Kelce also launched a late-night sports talk show, They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce, which debuted on ESPN in January 2025. Additionally, Kelce and his brother Travis have continued to grow their podcast New Heights, which was named the 8th most popular podcast on Apple Podcasts in 2024.
Despite his success in broadcasting, Kelce’s heart clearly remains with the Eagles. His presence at the 2025 Super Bowl parade, where he posed with the Vince Lombardi Trophy, underscored his enduring bond with the team and its fans. Kelce’s willingness to return in a non-playing role reflects his desire to contribute to the Eagles’ success, even after hanging up his cleats.
The “Special Condition” and What It Means
Kelce’s condition—that the Eagles must face the Chiefs in the 2025 Super Bowl—adds a fascinating twist to his potential return. The Kelce brothers have already made history as the first siblings to face off in a Super Bowl, first in 2023 (Super Bowl LVII, won by the Chiefs 38-35) and again in 2025 (Super Bowl LIX, won by the Eagles). A third “Kelce Bowl” would be unprecedented, especially with Jason in a coaching or advisory role. Travis Kelce, who recently confirmed his return to the Chiefs for the 2025 season despite their Super Bowl loss, expressed excitement about the possibility on the podcast, saying, “I’d love to see Jason on the other sideline. It’d be a different kind of challenge.”
For the Eagles, Kelce’s return as a coach or advisor could provide a significant boost. His deep understanding of the game, particularly the offensive line, and his experience in high-stakes situations like the Super Bowl make him a valuable asset. Head coach Nick Sirianni, whom Kelce praised after the 2025 Super Bowl win, would likely welcome his former center’s expertise. Kelce’s leadership and ability to inspire could also help the Eagles maintain their momentum as they aim for back-to-back titles, a feat not accomplished since the New England Patriots in 2004-2005.
What’s Next for Jason Kelce and the Eagles?
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on the Eagles and Chiefs to see if they can set the stage for another Super Bowl showdown. The Eagles, fresh off their championship, boast a talented roster led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, who was named Super Bowl LIX MVP, and running back Saquon Barkley, who ran for 118 yards and three touchdowns in the NFC Championship Game. Meanwhile, the Chiefs, with Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, remain a perennial powerhouse despite their recent loss.
For Jason Kelce, a return to the NFL in a new role would mark a new chapter in his already illustrious career. Whether as a coach, advisor, or in another capacity, Kelce’s presence would undoubtedly energize the Eagles and their fans. As he continues to thrive in his broadcasting career and personal life—Kelce and his wife Kylie are expecting their fourth child—the possibility of a Super Bowl return adds an exciting layer to his post-playing journey.
Conclusion
Jason Kelce’s conditional offer to return to the NFL for the 2025 Super Bowl has captured the imagination of Eagles fans and NFL enthusiasts alike. His storied career, deep connection to Philadelphia, and unique family dynamic with brother Travis make this potential comeback a storyline to watch. As the 2025 season unfolds, the prospect of another “Kelce Bowl” looms large, with Jason potentially playing a pivotal role from the sidelines. For now, Eagles fans can only hope that the stars align for Kelce’s return, bringing his passion and expertise back to the team he helped lead to glory.