ESPN Is Trying to Get Jason Kelce to Stop Calling the Eagles We

Jason Kelce has retired from the Philadelphia Eagles, but one word still makes his loyalty obvious on air: “we.” ESPN producer Jeff Dufine says broadcasters have been working to help the former center refer to Philadelphia as a team he used to play for, not one he still belongs to.

The pronoun ESPN wants him to change

“We’ve tried to get the ‘we’ out of him,” Dufine said, according to reporting on Kelce’s transition into broadcasting. Dufine described the habit as familiar among former players and coaches who have spent years identifying with one organization.

The issue surfaced during Eagles broadcasts, including the October 11 game against Jacksonville in London, when Kelce’s long association with Philadelphia made neutrality a focus for viewers. Kelce played 13 seasons with the Eagles before retiring in 2024.

The producer still praises his football eye

The producer’s comment was coaching feedback, not a network punishment. Dufine also praised Kelce’s analytical skills, saying, “He sees the game really well.” He credited Kelce’s ability to notice details and describe what was happening on the field.

Kelce’s next reported international assignment was the Steelers-Saints game in France on October 25. That matchup will give him another chance to call a game without his former team involved.

References: Jason Kelce’s ESPN Producer Says They’re Trying to Get Him to Stop Saying ‘We’ After Flub Controversy | ESPN producer says they’ve tried to get the ‘we’ out of Jason Kelce