Retired Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce issued an apology on ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” pregame show, admitting regret over a confrontation with a fan before the Ohio State-Penn State game. Kelce confessed that he “greeted hate with hate” and felt he had “fallen short” in how he managed the situation, which involved grabbing a fan’s phone and slamming it to the ground.
The incident unfolded at the Ohio State-Penn State game in State College, Pennsylvania, where Kelce was attending as a spectator. As he walked through the crowd, fans were approaching him for photos and greetings. However, one fan heckled him, using an anti-gay slur aimed at Kelce’s brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. In response, Kelce reacted impulsively, grabbing the heckler’s phone and throwing it down before exchanging heated words.
Social media videos captured the tense moment, showing Kelce confronting the fan, who wore Penn State attire, and appearing to repeat the same anti-gay slur in response. The confrontation nearly escalated further until another fan stepped in to de-escalate the situation. The incident quickly circulated online, drawing mixed reactions and criticism toward Kelce’s response to the provocation.
During his on-air apology, Kelce expressed deep disappointment in himself. He emphasized that, while his reaction was emotionally driven, meeting negativity with negativity was unproductive. Kelce shared that he values the principle of treating others respectfully and acknowledged that he did not uphold this standard during the incident. He hoped that his reflection and public acknowledgment would serve as a reminder to avoid such responses in the future.
Now an ESPN analyst after retiring from the NFL, Kelce acknowledged the influence his new public role carries and recognized the need to handle such situations responsibly. Kelce stated his commitment to continuing his personal growth, aiming to embody respect and understanding even when faced with hostility. This experience, he said, would be a learning moment as he adapts to life beyond professional football.
