New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce – Episode 136: Joe Thomas on Skipping The Draft, Being The NFL's Iron Man & Reviewing Real Life “Quidditch”

Release Date: April 23, 2025

In this engaging episode of "New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce," the Kelce brothers sit down with NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas to delve into his illustrious career, memorable draft day experiences, unique challenges as an offensive lineman, and his ventures beyond football. Hosted by Wondery, this episode offers listeners a deep dive into the life of one of Cleveland Browns' finest and explores the intersection of sports, personal resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit.

1. Joe Thomas’s Unconventional Draft Day

Joe Thomas begins by recounting his unforgettable NFL draft day. Instead of attending the bustling draft event in New York City, Thomas chose to honor a family tradition by going fishing with his father. His initial reluctance to attend the draft led to a humorous yet heartfelt negotiation with NFL officials.

Joe Thomas [21:02]: "The ironic thing about it all was I was doing it just to spend time with my dad fishing and doing something that I've loved my whole life and stay true to my roots."

Despite his initial decision, the NFL’s insistence and the high stakes of being a top draft pick eventually compelled him to comply, resulting in his selection as the third overall pick by the Cleveland Browns. This anecdote highlights Thomas’s strong family values and his ability to stay grounded amidst significant life events.

2. Navigating a Challenging Career with the Cleveland Browns

Thomas shares insights into his time with the Browns, emphasizing the struggles of playing on a team that often underperformed. He discusses the emotional toll of being part of a winless team and the consistent changes in the quarterback position, which added to the instability.

Joe Thomas [43:29]: "Losing in the NFL is so hard. You only get one chance every week, and how you feel that whole week is 100% related to whether you won or lost."

Despite these challenges, Thomas maintained a strong work ethic and a deep connection with his teammates. He highlights the camaraderie among the offensive line and the mutual support that sustained them through tough seasons. His dedication earned him the nickname "Iron Man," reflecting his remarkable endurance and commitment, evidenced by his record of 10,363 consecutive snaps played.

3. Mastering the Art of Offensive Line Play

A significant portion of the conversation delves into the technical aspects of Thomas’s role as an offensive tackle. He elaborates on his strategies to counteract formidable defensive players like James Harrison and Terrell Suggs.

Joe Thomas [34:16]: "I knew that was my advantage. So I just was really, really super conscious of picking my spot on his shoulder pads or on his bicep to be able to hit that spot and extend and keep him away from my body."

Thomas emphasizes the importance of adaptability and technical precision in his blocking techniques, which allowed him to excel despite being considered undersized compared to his peers. His ability to study and adjust his approach game-by-game was pivotal in his sustained success on the field.

4. Mentorship and Leadership Post-Retirement

Post-retirement, Thomas remains actively involved in the NFL community, particularly with the Cleveland Browns. He discusses his role in mentoring young players, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience to help the next generation of linemen.

Joe Thomas [37:19]: "I wanted to spend a lot of time with Miles and help him see the game from an offensive tackle's perspective."

His collaboration with current players and coaching staff underscores his commitment to fostering talent and maintaining a strong presence within the team’s evolving dynamics.

5. Expanding Horizons: Coaching International Football in Germany

Thomas recounts his enriching experience coaching American football in the European League of Football (ELF) in Munich, Germany. He highlights the cultural exchange and the passion European players have for the sport, despite it not being as mainstream as in the United States.

Joe Thomas [65:05]: "They are obsessed with football. They love it. They're working regular jobs, and they're obsessed with the game of football."

Through this venture, Thomas not only contributes to the growth of American football internationally but also enjoys introducing his family to new cultural experiences, such as Oktoberfest. His efforts in coaching reflect his desire to give back to the sport and inspire enthusiasm among players and fans alike.

6. Entrepreneurial Ventures: Hall of Fame Beef

Transitioning from football, Thomas introduces his entrepreneurial spirit through Hall of Fame Beef, a business focused on raising high-quality Wagyu and Angus cattle. He shares his passion for farming and his dedication to producing premium beef.

Joe Thomas [95:07]: "I think I was really, really stretching it...like, I can just do whatever I can to try to turn this thing into a winner."

Thomas’s emphasis on treating his cattle like pro athletes—focusing on genetics, nutrition, and low-stress environments—mirrors his meticulous approach on the football field. His commitment to excellence in this venture illustrates his enduring drive to succeed and innovate beyond his athletic career.

7. Reflections on the NFL and Team Dynamics

Throughout the discussion, Thomas offers candid reflections on the NFL's evolution, team management philosophies, and the impact of fan support. He touches on the psychological aspects of the game, such as the mental health challenges faced when unable to play and the importance of maintaining strong relationships within the team.

Joe Thomas [43:29]: "When you lose, you feel sick. Sick the whole week... it was really, really hard dealing with that."

His insights provide a nuanced understanding of the pressures and emotional complexities inherent in professional sports, highlighting the resilience required to navigate a career in the NFL.

Conclusion

This episode of "New Heights" offers a comprehensive look into Joe Thomas’s life, both on and off the field. From his steadfast dedication as a player to his impactful post-retirement endeavors, Thomas exemplifies perseverance, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on the intricacies of football, the significance of mentorship, and the rewarding challenges of entrepreneurship, all narrated through the authentic and relatable storytelling style of the Kelce brothers.

Notable Quotes:

• Joe Thomas [21:02]: "The ironic thing about it all was I was doing it just to spend time with my dad fishing and doing something that I've loved my whole life and stay true to my roots."
• Joe Thomas [34:16]: "I knew that was my advantage. So I just was really, really super conscious of picking my spot on his shoulder pads or on his bicep to be able to hit that spot and extend and keep him away from my body."
• Joe Thomas [37:19]: "I wanted to spend a lot of time with Miles and help him see the game from an offensive tackle's perspective."
• Joe Thomas [65:05]: "They are obsessed with football. They love it. They're working regular jobs, and they're obsessed with the game of football."
• Joe Thomas [95:07]: "I think I was really, really stretching it...like, I can just do whatever I can to try to turn this thing into a winner."
• Joe Thomas [43:29]: "Losing in the NFL is so hard. You only get one chance every week, and how you feel that whole week is 100% related to whether you won or lost."

This detailed and structured summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and memorable moments from Episode 136, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the podcast.