Jason Kelce's Heartwarming Gesture to Trainer Battling Cancer Before Retirement Announcement

Jason Kelce Asked Trainer to Tape His Ankles 1 Last Time

Jason Kelce Mitchell Leff/Getty Images

During his retirement announcement, fans noticed Jason Kelce's ankles were taped. In a recent podcast episode, Kelce revealed the heartfelt reason behind it. He shared that one of the Philadelphia Eagles' trainers, Joe O'Pella, had been battling cancer throughout the season. Kelce expressed relief that O'Pella is now in remission, with no signs of the disease. An operation is still planned to ensure his health, but Kelce mentioned that O'Pella is looking good.

Kelce announced his retirement from the NFL in an emotional speech on Monday, March 4. It was initially reported in January that Kelce had informed his Eagles teammates of his retirement plans after losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in an NFC wild card game.

He continued, “But he wasn’t able to tape me for any of the games this year, and he’s taped my ankles my whole career, so he taped me for the press conference one last time. So I had ankle tape on with sandals.”

Following Kelce’s press conference, O’Pella took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to the Eagles center and recall their friendship.

Jason Kelce Asked Trainer to Tape His Ankles 1 Last Time 2

During an NFL Wild Card playoff football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on January 15, 2024 in Tampa, Florida, Jason Kelce lines up for the game. Perry Knotts/Getty Images

In what would be his final season, a heartwarming story was shared about Jason Kelce's kindness. When a fan named O’Pella was diagnosed with cancer and had to undergo radiation and chemo, Kelce offered his shore house as a getaway. He even offered to pay for meal services to help out O’Pella and his wife. O’Pella shared on Instagram that Kelce would call him randomly when he was too sick to leave home due to chemo, just to check in and have a chat about random things.

O’Pella has shared numerous photos of himself with Kelce over the years, highlighting their strong bond both on and off the field.

He mentioned, "I used to tape this guy’s ankles and thumbs every day for 13 seasons. Unfortunately, I couldn't be there for his last game in Tampa due to cancer. When he announced his retirement, I expressed my disappointment at not being the last person to tape him. To my surprise, he offered to let me tape him for his retirement press conference. That just shows the kind of person he is."

Kelce played for the Eagles for 13 seasons. He helped the team win their first Super Bowl in 2018. In 2023, they made it back to the NFL championship game but unfortunately lost to Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Editor's P/S:

Jason Kelce's emotional retirement announcement and the heartwarming story behind his taped ankles highlight the profound bond he shares with the Philadelphia Eagles' trainer, Joe O'Pella. Kelce's gesture of allowing O'Pella to tape his ankles for the last time, despite his absence during the games due to cancer, speaks volumes about their friendship and mutual respect. It is a testament to Kelce's compassion and gratitude for those who have supported him throughout his career.

The article also sheds light on O'Pella's battle with cancer, which he kept private until recently. His resilience and determination are inspiring, and Kelce's support during his difficult time is a reflection of his genuine character. O'Pella's tribute to Kelce on social media captures the essence of their bond, emphasizing their unwavering friendship both on and off the field. Their story is a heartwarming reminder of the human connections that make sports so meaningful.