Jason Kelce Steps Away From ESPN Role to Focus on CTE Treatment
Philadelphia, PA – October 2, 2025
Jason Kelce, the legendary Philadelphia Eagles center who retired in 2024 after 13 NFL seasons, has officially stepped away from his role as an ESPN analyst to prioritize treatment for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).
Kelce joined ESPN in the fall of 2024, quickly becoming a staple on Monday Night Countdown alongside Scott Van Pelt, Ryan Clark, and Marcus Spears. His mix of sharp insight and trademark humor made him an instant fan favorite.
During the 2025 season, he notably covered the Eagles vs. Buccaneers matchup on September 28, drawing praise from fans and media for his candid and light-hearted commentary, proving his natural fit for broadcasting.
Beyond Countdown, Kelce even hosted his own short-lived late-night talk show, “They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce”, which debuted on ESPN in January 2025. With Travis Kelce as a frequent guest and SNACKTIME as house band, the show gained over one million viewers per episode.
In announcing his departure, Kelce shared: “Broadcasting has been an incredible journey, but right now my health has to come first. CTE is something I can’t ignore, and I need to give everything to treatment.”
ESPN responded with a statement of support, noting: “Jason brought unmatched energy and authenticity to our coverage. We respect his decision and wish him strength as he focuses on his health.”
The decision comes after Kelce revealed ongoing struggles with memory loss and mood swings. Doctors advised reducing professional commitments to focus on long-term treatment options and quality of life.
For Eagles fans and NFL viewers, Kelce’s voice will be missed both on the field and on screen. Yet his choice highlights the reality players face after football, and the courage it takes to confront CTE openly.
Chiefs Rookie Leading Tackler Responds to Depth Chart Question After Strong Game vs Cardinals
Kansas City, MO – August 10, 2025 — After a standout showing in the preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals, one of the Chiefs’ newest defenders isn’t letting roster speculation distract him from the job at hand.
Fifth-round rookie linebacker Jeffrey Bassa made the most of his snaps, leading Kansas City with six tackles — four solo and two assisted — while flashing the quick reads and closing speed that caught the coaching staff’s attention during camp.
“I don’t know and I’m not focused on that. When my number’s called in Kansas City, I just go out there and make the most of it for the Red and Gold,”
Bassa’s performance stood out in a deep linebacker room, where established starters Nick Bolton and Drue Tranquill have set a high bar. His range in coverage and ability to flow to the football earned praise from head coach Andy Reid, who noted his “energy and adaptability” in postgame remarks.
Jeffrey Bassa (#31) showing that quick twitch. Shutting down this run. pic.twitter.com/T1Yk36FJU8
— Price Carter (@priceacarter) August 10, 2025
A key feature of Bassa’s game was his anticipation — reading plays before they developed and making sure tackles in space. He was equally effective against the run and in short-zone coverage, helping disrupt the Cardinals’ rhythm on offense.
Arrowhead Addict recently highlighted Bassa as one of five rookies to watch this preseason, and Saturday night’s effort only strengthened that case. His versatility offers the Chiefs valuable depth, especially in a league that demands linebackers who can cover sideline to sideline.
With two preseason games remaining, Bassa’s push for a roster spot — and possibly a meaningful defensive role — is gaining momentum. If he keeps producing at this level, Kansas City’s linebacker corps could be one of the team’s biggest strengths entering 2025. Stay tuned to ESPN!
