A Retirement Gesture Reveals Jason Kelce's True Character

Everyone loves them some Jason Kelce! While his brother was the bigger focus of the 2023 NFL season, the older Kelce stole the spotlight more than a few times. And he got his moment to shine again when he recently accounced his retirement. 

Kelce, the heart and soul of the Philadelphia Eagles for 13 seasons, made it official in a manner that speaks volumes not just about his career but about the man himself.

During his farewell press conference, Kelce was spotted with his ankles taped, a detail that puzzled reporters until the touching backstory came to light.

Eagles Athletic Trainer Joe O’Pella, who missed Kelce’s final NFL game due to cancer treatment, revealed the reason behind this gesture in a heartfelt Instagram post.

O’Pella shared:

"In what would be his final season, when I was diagnosed with cancer and had to undergo radiation and chemo, [Kelce] offered his shore house if I needed to get away, and offered to pay for meal services to help my wife and me out. And he called me randomly when I had been home, too sick to come in because of chemo, just to check on me and chat about random things."

This act of kindness culminated in Kelce’s request for O’Pella to tape his ankles one last time for his retirement announcement, a nod to their years of camaraderie and mutual support.

Kelce's actions off the field—offering support, accommodation, and even the comfort of routine through the simple act of ankle taping—underscore the depth of his character. O’Pella painted a picture of a man whose impact reached far beyond the gridiron: 

"That's who he is."

And no, it's not about the tape. The tape was symbolic. Now... this story transcends the world of sports, illustrating how the bonds formed within it can foster genuine acts of love, kindness and support.

Kelce’s career with the Eagles is not only marked by exceptional athletic achievements but also by his profound humanity. And his retirement story is a testament to the kind of person he is off the field—a true embodiment of strength, compassion, and loyalty. 

Here's Joe O’Pella's full Instagram post: