New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce - Episode 127 Summary

Release Date: March 5, 2025

In Episode 127 of "New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce," hosted by Wondery, brothers Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs delve into a variety of topics central to the NFL offseason. This episode primarily focuses on Travis Kelsey's decision to return for his 13th season, Jason Kelce's defense of the controversial "Tush Push" play, and an in-depth discussion on the latest events at the NFL Combine. Additionally, the episode features a lighthearted segment where the Kelce brothers engage in a food taste test at the LA Food Court.

1. Travis Kelsey Returning for Year 13

[02:40] Jason Kelce:
“We're back with another incredible episode for you guys. We're gonna get to the big Yeti signing up for year 13.”

Travis Kelsey announces his intention to return for his 13th NFL season, despite contemplating retirement a year prior. Jason Kelce challenges Travis on his decision, questioning the rationale behind risking injury and earning less by continuing to play.

[04:18] Jason Kelce:
"Why are you playing another season? Why are you going to go out there, risk injury and make less money than you could make not playing football? Why are you doing this?"

[04:23] Travis Kelsey:
"The biggest thing is that I fucking love playing the game of football. I still feel like I could play it at a high level and possibly at a higher level than I did last year."
(04:23)

Travis emphasizes his passion for the game and his desire to fulfill his contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. He reflects on his performance in the previous season, expressing a commitment to improving and contributing positively to his team and community.

[06:12] Travis Kelsey:
"I just go off a feeling. I don't really. I'm not a very... I just go off a feel and I just pure gut. A pure gut feeling."
(06:12)

He highlights his decision-making process, relying more on intuition than on overanalyzing pros and cons, contrasting with Jason's analytical approach.

2. Defending the Tush Push

[42:49] Jason Kelce:
"Everyone debating the Tush push. Green Bay Packers GM Brian has submitted a rule proposal to ban the tush push quarterback sneak."
(42:49)

Jason Kelce addresses the ongoing debate surrounding the "Tush Push," a play that has garnered both support and criticism within the NFL. He argues in favor of the play, emphasizing its alignment with the physical and strategic nature of football.

[43:58] Jason Kelce:
"What represents football? Physicality, toughness. We're just going to bulldoze against each other like machines made of meat."
(43:58)

Jason contends that the Tush Push epitomizes the traditional essence of football—emphasizing strength and determination. He disputes claims that the play is akin to rugby, asserting its legitimacy within the sport.

3. NFL Combine Events and Insights

[20:34] Travis Kelsey:
"I saw a little bit of the tight end workout. That's it though."
(20:34)

Jason and Travis discuss the recent NFL Combine events, focusing on tight end performances and the physical metrics showcased. They express surprise at the generally slower 40-yard dash times for tight ends, noting the trend towards more specialized, blocking-oriented players.

[21:10] Travis Kelsey:
"I was so surprised by this tight end group's 40 yard dash. I mean, they didn't have anybody under a 46 and typically, I mean you'll usually find a lot of blocking tight ends."
(21:10)

They highlight standout performances, mentioning specific prospects like Travis Hunter from Penn State and Mason Taylor from LSU, praising their athleticism and potential impact in the NFL.

[33:53] Travis Kelsey:
"It's 100% possible. I mean, he's going to have to... Nobody has ever played every single play on both sides."
(33:53)

A significant portion of their discussion centers on Travis Hunter's ambition to play both offense and defense, a feat rarely seen in the league. They analyze the feasibility of such a dual-role player, referencing historical precedents and the physical demands involved.

4. NFL News & Player Contracts

[41:07] Travis Kelsey:
"He's one of my favorite guys to play with."
(41:07)

The brothers touch upon recent contract negotiations, specifically Saquon Barkley's extension with the Philadelphia Eagles. They dissect the structure of the contract, expressing admiration for Barkley's contributions and the strategic financial maneuvers by the Eagles' front office.

5. New Heights Food Court: LA Taste Test

[48:07] Travis Kelsey:
"All right, we got to give it a 1 out of 10. What are you going?"
(48:07)

In a fun and entertaining segment, Jason and Travis visit the LA Food Court to review local food staples they missed attending Jake's wedding. They evaluate items such as the Heavy Handed Burger, Lasorta Pizza, and 1986 Tacos, providing candid and humorous feedback.

Heavy Handed Burger:

• Jason's Rating: 9/10
  "It's a really good burger for a smash burger."
• Travis's Rating: 7/10
  "It's a really good burger."

Despite the cold condition of some items, they appreciate the flavor and quality, especially praising the burger's taste and comparing it favorably to established chains like In-N-Out.

Lasorta Pizza:

• Jason's Rating: 8.2/10
  "It's got really good crust. The texture, the dough and everything. They nailed all that."
• Travis's Rating: 8/10
  "The bite is pretty solid. I'm going a solid seven."

They commend the pizza's robust flavors and crust quality, though they suggest enhancements like more sauce and cheese for an elevated experience.

1986 Tacos:

• Jason's Rating: 7.8/10
  "It's a great taco."
• Travis's Rating: 7/10
  "The last time I was in LA, I went to... I'll eat those tacos over these any day of the week."

The tacos receive positive remarks for their authentic taste and fresh ingredients, emphasizing the importance of quality in street food offerings.

Notable Quotes:

• Travis Kelsey on Returning:
  "I fucking love playing the game of football. I still feel like I could play it at a high level and possibly at a higher level than I did last year."
  (04:23)

• Jason Kelce on the Tush Push:
  "What represents football? Physicality, toughness. We're just going to bulldoze against each other like machines made of meat."
  (43:58)

• Travis Kelsey on NFL Combine Performance:
  "I was so surprised by this tight end group's 40 yard dash. I mean, they didn't have anybody under a 46 and typically, I mean you'll usually find a lot of blocking tight ends."
  (21:10)

• Jason Kelce on Tampa Super Bowl Loss:
  "Don't overanalyze, Trev."
  (11:06)

Conclusion:

Episode 127 of "New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce" offers a comprehensive look into Travis Kelsey's decision to extend his illustrious NFL career, the brothers' perspectives on evolving game strategies like the Tush Push, and insightful analysis of incoming talent from the NFL Combine. Their candid and humorous interactions, coupled with expert opinions, provide listeners with an engaging and informative experience, whether they're dedicated football fans or casual listeners looking to stay updated on NFL developments.