Jason Kelce, the older brother of Travis Kelce, has played a significant role in shaping Travis’s football journey from an early age.
As children growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, Jason served as an inspiration and role model that helped fuel Travis’s passion for the game. Even after both brothers went on to successful NFL careers, Jason has continued providing invaluable guidance, support, and motivation that has taken Travis’s game to new heights. Their story is a testament to the power of family and how a sibling relationship can help guide an athlete’s path to excellence.
## Early Inspiration
From a young age, Travis looked up to Jason, who showed a natural talent and love for football. Jason excelled playing youth football and began establishing himself as a standout player in middle school. For Travis, who was just starting out in the sport, Jason became an early role model.
“I always wanted to be just like my big brother,” Travis recalled. “He was so good at football even as a kid, and I admired how much he loved the game. I wanted to work as hard as he did and hopefully have some of the same success.”
The brothers would often play football together in their backyard or at the park. This allowed Jason to teach Travis proper technique for things like passing, catching, and blocking. He would give Travis pointers on footwork, reading defenses, and other fundamentals. More than just instruction, playing with his older brother made football fun for Travis and fostered his passion for the sport.
Jason was so patient with me when we would practice together,” Travis said. “He pushed me to get better but also made it really enjoyable. Those moments we shared bonding over football had a huge impact on me deciding that this was what I wanted to do.”
When it came time for high school, Jason and Travis attended Saint Edward High School in Lakewood, Ohio. By then, Jason had established himself as one of the top players in the state. Watching his older brother dominate on Friday nights under the lights further inspired Travis to work hard and elevate his own game.
“I wanted to play at the same level as Jason and help our team in any way I could,” Travis remarked. “Seeing how much fun he was having and the leadership he brought really lit a fire inside me.”
Over their high school careers, Jason and Travis developed a friendly rivalry as they pushed each other to new heights. Both brothers excelled for Saint Edward, with Jason earning numerous accolades as one of the best linemen in the country. He signed with the University of Cincinnati to continue his football career.
## College and Beyond
When it came time for Travis to choose a college, he knew there was only one option – following in Jason’s footsteps to the University of Cincinnati. Beyond just wanting to stay close to his brother, Travis felt Cincinnati was the best fit because of Jason’s experience.
“Jason had just finished an amazing career with the Bearcats, so he gave me great insight into the coaches, campus, and football program,” Travis said. “I trusted his opinion more than anyone else’s. Plus, I knew having him there would help me transition and keep getting better.”
During Travis’s freshman year, Jason was a senior captain for Cincinnati. He took Travis under his wing, showing him the ropes of college football both on and off the field. Jason helped Travis adjust to the increased speed and physicality of the game at the FBS level. He also offered guidance on time management, academics, and handling new responsibilities.
“Jason was like a second coach and big brother all rolled into one,” Travis remarked. “He pushed me to work harder than anyone else and set an incredible example of what it took to succeed at that level. I’m not sure I would have developed as quickly without his leadership.”
Over the next few years, Travis emerged as one of the top tight ends in the country playing for Cincinnati. He credits much of his growth to learning from Jason’s example and benefiting from his constant feedback and encouragement.
When it came time for the NFL Draft, Jason once again provided invaluable support. He helped Travis prepare for the pre-draft process, offering mock interviews and sharing tips on impressing scouts and team executives. On draft day, Travis was selected in the third round by the Kansas City Chiefs.
## Professional Career
Even after both Kelce brothers made it to the NFL, their relationship and Jason’s influence did not end. If anything, Jason took on an even greater mentoring role as Travis began his pro career.
From training regimens to film study, Jason was always available to offer advice and feedback. He helped Travis transition to the heightened speed and complexity of the NFL. On the mental side, Jason encouraged Travis to embrace leadership responsibilities and learn from veteran teammates.
