NFL fans lose their minds over Jason Kelce’s first pitch at Phillies game – “He did 100x better than Travis”

Even though Jason Kelce has retired, he continues to receive adoration in Philadelphia.

On Saturday, Fletcher Cox, a former center and retired player for the Eagles, went to Citizens Bank Park to throw the ceremonial first pitch at the Phillies’ game against the Atlanta Braves, alongside his fellow Eagles retiree.

Several supporters deemed it a step up from Travis Kelce’s initial pitch at last year’s Seattle Mariners-Cleveland Guardians game.

Following the pitch, Kelce went even further by signing Bryce Harper’s cleats.

Jason Kelce discusses Eagles’ upcoming season during Phillies-Braves game

Following Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox’s baseball throws, they joined NBC Sports Philadelphia’s broadcast team to discuss their experience. When asked about his pitch, Kelce mentioned his arm issue during the interview.

“It is. It’s been bothering me all the time, but we got some warm-up out there.”

Without a doubt, it was a more successful endeavor than the one he and Travis had undertaken for the Guardians, all thanks to a particular fellow Philadelphia sports icon.

“Well, the bar was nice and low, until I got a text from (former Phillies manager) Charlie Manuel yesterday. Apparently he did the first pitch yesterday and he said, ‘I’m 80 years old. I had a strike, no pressure.’”

Additionally, he conveyed appreciation for having the opportunity to spend his entire professional football career in the City of Brotherly Love.

“I certainly appreciate it. It’s hard to play in this city and not let it engulf here. I mean, it’s so much passion, so much energy everywhere you go… You got to have a thick skin, and you got to show that you care, that you want it, and the fans will embrace you more than anything. That’s what they want.”

Who will take over as the new leader of the Eagles offense following Jason Kelce’s departure?

Despite Brandon Graham effectively stepping into the role of defensive leader previously held by Fletcher Cox, the loss of Kelce creates a noticeable void on the offensive side. During the yearly conference, general manager Howie Roseman mentioned a few potential candidates to fill this role.

“(Left guard) Landon (Dickerson) has tremendous leadership capabilities. Obviously, (right tackle) Lane (Johnson) is the leader of the offensive line with Jason not there. (Left tackle) Jordan has grown tremendously as a leader. We expect him to be tremendous. (New starting center) Cam (Jurgens) was a captain at Nebraska.”

Lane Johnson, who is entering his 12th season, has become the most seasoned player on the offensive line.