Travis Kelce's brother is Jason Kelce, a center in the National Football League (NFL) who has built a distinct career with the Philadelphia Eagles. Jason played college football at the University of Cincinnati before entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2011. Over his professional career, he has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and became known for his durability and leadership on the offensive line. While often recognized as the sibling of a star tight end, Jason has established his own narrative in the league through consistent performance and championship pedigree. The following sections detail his background, career milestones, and standing in professional football.
Jason Kelce early life and college
High school and foundational years
Jason Kelce was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and grew up in the Cincinnati area, attending elder high school in the suburb of Wyoming, Ohio. He played both football and baseball in high school, showing early promise as a two-way lineman. Academically, he balanced athletics with strong classroom performance, which helped him secure opportunities at the collegiate level. His roots in Ohio connected him to a region with a deep football culture, preparing him for the rigors of Division I competition.
College career and development at Cincinnati
Jason played college football for the University of Cincinnati Bearcats from 2006 to 2010. He started 33 consecutive games at center, earning first-team All-Big East honors as a senior. His college career highlighted his intelligence in the run game and reliability in pass protection, traits that defined his professional approach. The Cincinnati program provided a platform for him to refine his technique and gain exposure leading into the 2011 NFL Draft, where he went undrafted but quickly drew interest from multiple teams.
Professional career and key milestones
Entry into the NFL and early years
Jason signed with the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He earned a roster spot after training camp and made his NFL debut in the 2011 season. He spent his early years backing up established linemen while continuing to develop under the Eagles' offensive line coaching staff. His work ethic and situational awareness kept him on the roster and gradually increased his role in the lineup.
Pro Bowl selections and recognition
Jason Kelce earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2017 and has since been named to multiple additional Pro Bowls, reflecting his consistency and impact at the center position. He was also part of the Eagles' Super Bowl LII championship team, contributing to a successful run in the 2017 season. These milestones underscored his rise from an undrafted rookie to a respected starter in the NFL, earning him recognition among his peers for technique, toughness, and leadership.
2024 season performance and durability
In the 2024 season, Jason Kelce continued to demonstrate the durability and reliability that have defined his career. He maintained a streak of consecutive starts, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level across multiple campaigns. His contributions were instrumental in protecting the quarterback and executing running plays, key factors in Philadelphia's offensive success. By training consistently and managing his workload carefully, he has remained one of the more reliable centers in the league.
Career achievements and honors
- Multiple Pro Bowl selections (2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
- Super Bowl LII champion (2017 season)
- First-team All-Big East (2010)
- NFL Alumni Association Center of the Year nominee
- Eagles team MVP nominee in several seasons
Playing style and on-field role
Jason Kelce is known for his compact, efficient stance and strong hand usage, which help him anchor against bull rushes and maintain leverage in pass protection. He excels in zone-running schemes due to his footwork and patience, and his communication with guards and tackles has been a staple of the Eagles' line. Coaches have praised his preparation habits and film-study discipline, which contribute to his sustained excellence at the center position.
Family connection to Travis Kelce
The Kelce brothers share a close bond, often highlighted in interviews and social media. While Travis has carved out a record-breaking career as a tight end, Jason has built his reputation on durability and leadership in the trenches. Their relationship illustrates how family talent can thrive in different roles within the same sport. Media coverage frequently references their mutual support, which has become a notable talking point in broader NFL storylines.
Jason Kelce career snapshot
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Jason Kelce | Official player bio |
| Position | Center | Official team roster |
| Team(s) | Philadelphia Eagles (primary) | Transaction records |
| College | University of Cincinnati | NCAA profile |
| NFL Draft | Undrafted free agent (2011) | Draft archives |
| Pro Bowl selections | 8 (2017–2024) | NFL records |
| Championships | Super Bowl LII (2017 season) | League championship data |
| Career status (2024) | Active, starting center | Team depth chart |
Quick comparison: Jason Kelce at a glance
| Metric | Detail | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Center | Interior offensive line |
| Teams | Philadelphia Eagles | Primary franchise |
| Pro Bowls | 8 | 2017–2024 selections |
| Championships | 1 | Super Bowl LII (2017) |
| College | University of Cincinnati | 2006–2010 |
| Draft status | Undrafted, 2011 | Signed as free agent |
| Notable trait | Durability and leadership | Consistent starter over many seasons |
Summary
Jason Kelce is Travis Kelce's brother and a veteran center for the Philadelphia Eagles with eight Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl championship. Building his career from undrafted free agent to one of the league's most reliable linemen, Jason exemplifies steady excellence in the NFL. His background, playing style, and achievements establish him as a notable figure in professional football beyond his family connection.
FAQ
Reader questions
What position does Jason Kelce play?
Jason Kelce plays center for the Philadelphia Eagles. As a central lineman, he is responsible for snapping the ball to the quarterback and protecting the pocket against interior rushes.
How many Pro Bowls has Jason Kelce been selected to?
Jason Kelce has been selected to eight Pro Bowls (2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024), demonstrating consistent excellence at his position over more than a decade.
Is Jason Kelce related to Travis Kelce?
Yes, Jason Kelce is the younger brother of Travis Kelce, the star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. Their sibling relationship is frequently noted in interviews and media coverage.
Did Jason Kelce win a Super Bowl?
Yes, Jason Kelce won Super Bowl LII with the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2017 season as part of the team's championship run.
What college did Jason Kelce attend?
Jason Kelce attended the University of Cincinnati, where he played college football and earned first-team All-Big East honors as a senior.