Jason Kelce, Taylor Swift Getty Images(2)
The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing to create yet another Christmas album, and there may be an unexpected guest in store.
NFL celebrities Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson, and Jordan Mailata made their musical introduction with A Philly Special Christmas in 2022. The album raised over $1 million for local charities. This year, they are working on a second album called A Philly Special Christmas Special. It will feature 10 timeless holiday songs and an original track by the 35-year-old Kelce.
Kelce believes it would be amazing to have Taylor Swift featured on the album, given her blossoming relationship with his brother, Travis Kelce. However, fans will have to be patient as a collaboration with Swift will not happen in this particular album. Jason mentioned that there might be a possibility in the future. During an interview on Today, Sheinelle Jones, the host, suggested that such a collaboration could help raise funds for charity and potentially cause a viral sensation.
Lane Johnson #65, Jordan Mailata #68 and Jason Kelce #62 of the Philadelphia Eagles. Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
Jason freely discusses his brother's romantic involvement, playfully suggesting that Travis is going out of his way to act chivalrous around Swift. Jason expressed amusement at the global reaction to their budding relationship, mentioning that he has not received any hints regarding the nature of their connection from Travis. However, sources close to them believe that Travis and Swift have developed romantic feelings for each other.
Swift will not be joining Jason in the studio, but Philadelphia native Patti LaBelle will make an appearance on one song.
Mailata, who is 26 years old, admitted to feeling "very nervous" about singing with the 79-year-old LaBelle, whom he affectionately referred to as "the queen."
"I suffered from stage fright," Mailata admitted in an interview with Today on Monday. "Whenever I attempted to sing alongside her, I would freeze."
The group of teammates also decided to tackle Mariah Carey's iconic track, "All I Want for Christmas Is You," which proved to be an immense test for them.
"It was initially quite nerve-wracking since I couldn't possibly compete with the Queen of the Holidays," Mailata joked. "Her talent is truly astounding. Therefore, we had to lower the intensity a bit and add our own personal touch. And I must say, the outcome was truly exceptional."
Jason revealed that the inspiration to create a Christmas album originated from the moments he shared with Johnson, 33, and Mailata outside of their professional environment.
"We often find ourselves singing together," he revealed. "Lane and I occasionally ride in the same car after a game, enjoying the tunes that play."
Jason further expressed his excitement over his three daughters - Wyatt, 4, Elliotte, 2, and Bennett, 7 months - absolutely adoring the holiday songs by the Eagles.
In addition to being an enjoyable and lively endeavor, their second album will also have a significant philanthropic component. The profits generated from the album sales will contribute to the Eagles' Autism Foundation. Johnson is confident that Eagles fans will once again demonstrate their generosity by making substantial donations.
"They have consistently backed the team," stated the offensive tackle during his appearance on Today. "When they discovered that this was not a mere joke and that there was genuine talent and skill involved, it held even greater significance."
A Philly Special Christmas Special is set to be released on Friday, November 3.