Lessons from a Veteran: Financial and Life Advice from Eagles Center Jason Kelce

Jason Kelce has been a mainstay on the Philadelphia Eagles offensive line since being drafted in the sixth round in 2011. Over his decade-long NFL career, the veteran center has established himself as a leader both on and off the field. At 34 years old and entering his 12th season, Kelce has seen and experienced just about everything the professional football world has to offer. His longevity and success make him a great source of wisdom for up-and-coming athletes just starting their careers. Here are some valuable lessons young players can learn from Kelce’s journey in the NFL.

Prioritizing Passion over Paychecks

One of the biggest mistakes young athletes can make is focusing too heavily on the financial aspect of their sport from the beginning. While the money is certainly enticing, especially for those coming from more modest backgrounds, Kelce warns that an overemphasis on salaries and contracts can lead down a damaging path. “Early in my career, I saw some guys get wrapped up in contract negotiations and holdouts. They lost sight of why they were playing in the first place – because they loved the game,” recalls Kelce.

For Kelce, football was always his passion first and foremost. Even after making the NFL, he played with the same joy and enthusiasm as when he was a kid just starting out. “I never wanted to get to a point where I dreaded practicing or playing on Sundays. The money is great, don’t get me wrong, but it can’t be your sole motivation.” Kelce advises young players to focus on improving their skills and enjoying the sport during their early years before monetary compensation becomes a major factor.

“If you don’t truly love football, you won’t be able to sustain the grind of training and playing through injuries at this level. The passion is what will carry you through the low points and keep you going strong for a long career.” Kelce’s love for the game has undoubtedly contributed to his NFL longevity despite playing one of the most physically demanding positions on the field. While financial security is important, passion should remain the driving force for aspiring athletes according to Kelce.

Prioritizing Health and Recovery

Another area Kelce emphasizes for younger players is taking care of their physical well-being, especially when it comes to injury prevention and recovery strategies. As a 12-year NFL veteran, Kelce’s body has endured immense wear and tear over the years from the punishing nature of his position. He’s learned valuable lessons the hard way about balancing workloads and allowing the body proper rest.

“When I was younger, I thought I was invincible and could push through anything. I’d try to play through minor injuries and not give myself enough time to fully heal.” Kelce looks back now and realizes how detrimental those habits were to his long-term health. “It’s so important for young guys to listen to their bodies and not try to be a hero all the time. Pushing too hard too soon often just leads to setbacks.”

Proper nutrition, sleep, hydration and strength/flexibility training are also major components of Kelce’s recovery regimen that he stresses to younger players. “Diet and lifestyle habits play a huge role in injury prevention and bouncing back quickly. Taking care of your body should be a daily priority, not just an afterthought.” With his advanced recovery strategies now, Kelce feels like he’s playing some of his best football in his 12th season at age 34. His advice could help younger players stay healthy and extend their careers.

Another area where Kelce has seen peers go wrong is in the company they keep off the field. “I’ve witnessed many guys get led down the wrong path because of negative influences around them. Whether it’s friends pulling them into bad situations or hanger-ons just looking to benefit from their status, it can really derail a career.”

Kelce makes it a point to keep close relationships with a small circle of trusted friends and family who want what’s best for him. “My wife and parents have always been my rocks who keep me grounded. And I try to keep other positive people in my inner circle who share my goals and values.”

He encourages younger players to be discerning about who they allow into their personal lives. “Surround yourself with people who support your dreams, make you a better person, and will give you honest advice – even if it’s not what you want to hear. You have to protect your career and reputation.” Kelce believes having the right support system is half the battle for young athletes navigating fame and fortune for the first time.

Valuing Education Beyond Athletics

Another lesson Kelce emphasizes is not neglecting education in single-minded pursuit of athletic goals. “I’ve seen too many guys coast through school just to stay eligible without really applying themselves academically. But injuries and unexpected endings can happen at any time.”

Kelce credits his educational background at the University of Cincinnati for giving him options beyond football. “I majored in operations management, which taught me valuable life skills. Even if my NFL career ended tomorrow, I’d have a solid foundation to fall back on career-wise.”

For young athletes just starting college, Kelce’s advice is to treat education as seriously as athletics. “Get involved in campus activities outside of sports too. And don’t be afraid to challenge yourself academically – you’d be surprised at how those tough classes can help your mental game on the field.”

Kelce also recommends designating time for school even during offseasons and NFL careers. “Continuing your education should always be a priority. You never know when knowledge and qualifications outside of sports could come in handy.” His well-rounded approach has given Kelce peace of mind throughout his professional journey.

Managing Finances Responsibly

One area where Kelce has seen many peers struggle is money management, especially for those signing big contracts in their early 20s for the first time. “Money was the last thing I thought about in college since I was just focused on football and school. Then I went from making nothing to a decent salary overnight in the NFL.”

Kelce admits he had to learn financial responsibility the hard way initially through some mistakes. “I bought too many things I didn’t need and didn’t have a real plan for my money. Thankfully I caught myself before it became a serious problem.” Now he emphasizes the importance of financial education for young athletes.

“Seek guidance from a professional adviser you trust from the beginning. Set up a budget, savings goals, and understand your contracts and taxes. Too many guys blow through their money quickly and have nothing to show for their careers.”

Kelce also recommends diversifying investments beyond just current earnings. “Make your money work for you through long-term investments so you’re set up after football too. Don’t rely solely on your NFL salary.” His prudent approach to finances now has Kelce well-positioned for life after his playing days are over.

Leading by Example

Over a decade into his NFL tenure, Kelce has established himself as a leader both on his team and in the league through his professionalism, work ethic and community involvement. He hopes to pass on the wisdom gained from his experiences to the next generation of players.

“I try to lead by example in taking care of my body, holding myself accountable, and being a positive presence in the locker room. The veterans before me did the same for me.” Kelce also gives back through his charity work supporting youth sports and education initiatives.

“I want young guys to see that being a pro is about more than just what you do on the field. It’s an opportunity to positively impact lives both in and outside of the game.” With his selfless attitude and long career still going strong, Kelce is sure to continue mentoring up-and-coming players for years to come. His guidance can help them avoid pitfalls and achieve sustained success in football and beyond.

In closing, Jason Kelce has certainly seen it all over a remarkable NFL tenure. His lessons on prioritizing passion over pay, valuing health, education and support systems, and developing financial responsibility could help steer the next generation on a wise path. Young athletes would do well to heed the advice of this veteran leader still performing at an elite level after over a decade in the league.