Jason Kelce has given ESPN another reminder that retirement has not made him a neutral NFL observer, and his latest celebration suggests the network faces a bigger challenge than simply separating him from the Philadelphia Eagles.
The former All-Pro centre has already faced questions over his habit of referring to Philadelphia as “we”, but he has now extended that loyalty to his hometown Cleveland Browns following their victory over the Baltimore Ravens.
The Browns’ 4-2 start and position at the top of the AFC North gave Kelce plenty to celebrate. His reaction also renewed the debate over whether a former player should leave his personal allegiances behind when working as a television analyst.
Kelce made no attempt to hide his excitement during ESPN’s coverage, celebrating Cleveland’s early success and their victory over a divisional rival.
“I’m from Cleveland. We’ve been waiting for this moment, fellas. We’re finally here,” Kelce declared.
He continued celebrating the Browns’ 4-2 record, repeatedly referring to the franchise as “we” while highlighting the significance of defeating Baltimore.
Kelce grew up in the Cleveland area before playing college football at Cincinnati alongside his younger brother, Travis Kelce.
Both brothers have maintained their connections to Cleveland sports, including appearances supporting the Cavaliers.
ESPN Has Already Tried to Change Kelce’s Language
Kelce’s tendency to speak like a supporter rather than a detached analyst has already created awkward moments during ESPN broadcasts.
After spending 13 seasons with Philadelphia and winning a Super Bowl, the retired offensive lineman has struggled to distance himself from the franchise that defined his NFL career.
His repeated use of “we” when discussing the Eagles previously prompted Pat McAfee to joke about his allegiance following Philadelphia’s defeat to the Chicago Bears.
Kelce eventually apologised to Bears supporters, although former ESPN analyst Ryan Clark defended his position.
ESPN producer Jeff Dufine has also acknowledged the ongoing problem. “We’ve tried to get the ‘we’ out of him,” Dufine told the Philadelphia Inquirer.
The latest Cleveland celebration suggests those efforts have achieved little.
Kelce’s next ESPN gig will be in Paris during Week 7’s international matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints at the Stade de France.
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