Sibling relationships can be complex, especially when both brothers are top athletes in the NFL.
Jason Kelce recently revealed that before launching their popular podcast, New Heights, he and his younger brother, Travis Kelce, would sometimes go months without speaking.
Podcast Strengthened Their Bond
In an interview with Bustle, Jason shared that the best part of hosting New Heights is having regular conversations with Travis.
“Before we started the podcast, we would go months sometimes without talking to each other,” Jason admitted. “The podcast forces us once a week to sit down and talk to each other.”
Their busy careers had kept them in different states for years, making it difficult to stay in touch. Jason, a former Philadelphia Eagles center, and Travis, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end, were focused on their individual NFL journeys.
A Rekindled Connection
Launching New Heights in September 2022 helped the Kelce brothers reconnect. The weekly podcast gave them the chance to spend more time together despite their demanding schedules.
“We both have a lot going on in our lives, and it’s been fun—after all these years being in different cities and fighting to make it in the football landscape—to rekindle the amount of times that we talk and the closeness that we had growing up,” Jason said.
Jason Supports Travis Instead of Giving Advice
As the older brother, Jason sees himself as a supporter rather than a mentor.
“I try not to be too much of an advice person and more like a support person [for Travis],” he explained. “If he asks me for stuff or my opinion, I’ll be there for him. I’ve never tried to tell him what to do or how to do things. I firmly believe you’ve got to go and learn that stuff for yourself.”
Life After Retirement and Super Bowl Emotions
Jason, who announced his retirement in March 2024 after 13 seasons with the Eagles, had more time to reflect on his career and relationships. He attended the 2025 Super Bowl to cheer for both his former team and his brother, as the Eagles faced off against the Chiefs at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
Following the game, Jason shared his emotional struggle as the Eagles secured a 40-22 victory over the Chiefs.
“That game was odd for me to watch if I’m being completely honest,” he wrote on X. “On one hand, I wanted what is best for my brother, and to see his success. And on the other hand, there are so many people, teammates, and coaches in the Philadelphia Eagles organization that I care deeply about, many of whom I owe my own success to throughout my career.”
Despite the mixed emotions, Jason emphasized his love and admiration for Travis.
“There isn’t a person that I love or care about more than Travis,” he added. “Of course, I feel for him and am always rooting for him, but I know he does not need, nor want my pity. He has amassed greatness few on this planet could ever dream of, as has his team, and they should feel pride in their accomplishments this season and in the past.”
A Stronger Brotherly Bond
Though their busy lives once kept them apart, New Heights has given Jason and Travis the chance to strengthen their brotherly connection.
Their podcast not only entertains fans but also serves as a meaningful way for them to stay close, proving that even in the world of professional sports, family remains the foundation.
