Jason Kelce Hints at a Future in Podcasting Over Coaching in the NFL

Jason Kelce, the retired NFL player and current media personality, recently opened up about his future career plans, hinting that he is more inclined to stick with podcasting rather than pursuing a role as a coach in the NFL. During an appearance on the Pardon My Take podcast, Kelce was asked if he would consider coaching in the league. He responded by highlighting the significant financial difference between his current endeavors and the potential pay of a coaching job. "That would be a significant pay decrease from podcasting," he said. "So, I’m navigating that."

Kelce retired from the NFL in March 2024 after a storied 13-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles. Since then, he has focused on growing his media career, most notably alongside his brother, Travis Kelce, as the co-host of the popular New Heights podcast. In August 2024, the podcast signed a lucrative nine-figure deal with Amazon’s podcast studio, Wondery. The deal includes global distribution rights, ad-sales representation, rights to past episodes, and the opportunity to launch international adaptations of the show, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The Rise of New Heights and Its Lucrative Deal

The New Heights podcast has become a major player in the sports podcasting space since its launch. Wondery, recognizing the show’s growth and appeal, saw an opportunity to partner with Jason and Travis Kelce. "We’ve been watching the growth of the podcast, really since it was launched, and I have been building a relationship with Travis and Jason and getting to know them for a while now," said Wondery CEO Jen Sargent. She emphasized that sports is a key category for podcast listeners and a strategic priority for both Wondery and Amazon, making the partnership a natural fit.

The deal underscores the growing influence of podcasts in the sports industry, as well as the marketability of the Kelce brothers. Their chemistry, humor, and insights into the NFL have resonated with fans, making New Heights a must-listen for football enthusiasts. For Jason, the financial success of the podcast has made it an attractive alternative to other career paths, including coaching.

Jason Kelce’s Family Life and the Challenges of Coaching

In addition to the financial considerations, Jason Kelce also cited his growing family as a reason he may not be ready to dive into coaching anytime soon. "There’s also just the time commitment of those guys," he said during his Pardon My Take interview. "I got three young kids, a fourth on the way. I don’t know that I’m ready for that yet."

Jason and his wife, Kylie Kelce, are parents to three daughters—Wyatt, 5; Ellie, 3; and Bennett, 23 months. In November 2024, Kylie announced that they are expecting their fourth child, another daughter. While coaching might not be in the cards right now, Jason admitted that "part of me would love to do that." His passion for the game and his desire to share his knowledge with the next generation of players are evident, but for now, his focus remains on his family and his thriving media career.

A Broadcasting Deal with ESPN

In addition to his success with New Heights, Jason Kelce has also made waves in the broadcasting world. In May 2024, he signed a three-year deal with ESPN worth $24 million, beating out other major networks like CBS, NBC, and Prime Video in a competitive bidding war. The deal marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, as he transitioned from the field to the studio.

Jason made his TV debut in September 2024 as a cohost on ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown, joining Scott Van Pelt, Ryan Clark, and Marcus Spears. His charisma and football expertise quickly made him a fan favorite, and he is expected to return to the show for the 2025-2026 NFL season. In addition to his work on Monday Night Countdown, Jason also launched his own late-night program, They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce, in January 2025. The show ran for six episodes, and while ESPN has not yet announced a second season, the experiment showcased Jason’s versatility and appeal as a broadcaster.

Balancing Family and Career: Jason Kelce’s Next Chapter

As Jason Kelce navigates his post-NFL career, he is juggling multiple roles—podcaster, broadcaster, husband, and father. His decision to prioritize his growing family and lucrative media deals over coaching reflects his current priorities. While coaching may still be a possibility in the future, Jason is content with building his brand and connecting with fans through his podcast and television appearances.

Jason Kelce’s Legacy and the Future

Jason Kelce’s retirement from football marked the end of an incredible chapter in his life, but it also opened the door to new opportunities. His success in podcasting and broadcasting highlights his ability to adapt and evolve, both on and off the field. As he continues to grow his media empire and spend time with his family, Jason remains a beloved figure in the sports world, inspiring fans with his humor, authenticity, and passion for the game.

Whether he decides to coach in the future or remains in the media spotlight, one thing is clear: Jason Kelce’s influence extends far beyond the football field. His journey from NFL standout to media personality is a testament to his versatility and dedication to staying relevant in the ever-changing sports landscape. For now, fans can enjoy his insights on New Heights and ESPN, as he continues to redefine what it means to be a former athlete in the modern era.