Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce, two of the NFL’s biggest stars, have made their mark in professional sports with numerous endorsement deals. However, they missed out on the lucrative opportunities presented by the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) era while they were playing college football at the University of Cincinnati. Imagine the possibilities if they had been able to capitalize on their college fame!
Reflecting on College Days
Recently, the Kelce brothers were joined on their New Heights podcast by WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark. While Clark was the guest of honor, she took the opportunity to turn the tables and ask the Kelce brothers a thought-provoking question: which NIL deals would they have wanted during their college years?
This question sparked a lively conversation, revealing not only their personal preferences but also their deep connections to Cincinnati. It’s fascinating to think about how these endorsements could have shaped their college experiences and financial futures.
Travis Kelce’s Dream Deal
For Travis Kelce, the answer came quickly. “Adriatico’s Pizza. I could sell that s*** in a heartbeat,” he exclaimed. His love for this local eatery was evident as he reminisced about visiting it daily during his college years. “If you’re ever around the University of Cincinnati… have you some Adriatico’s Pizza. And get you a Bearcat pizza. It’s one of the best.”
His enthusiasm for the pizza was infectious, and it highlighted how local businesses could have benefited from partnering with popular athletes like him. After all, who wouldn’t want to support a local favorite endorsed by a star player?
Jason Kelce’s Thoughtful Choice
Jason Kelce took a bit longer to ponder his answer. Initially, he leaned toward Procter & Gamble, a major manufacturing company based in Cincinnati. “If I’m going for business-wise, you want to get in the P&G family,” he stated, recognizing the potential for a lucrative partnership.
However, he soon shifted gears to reflect on something more personal. “Selfishly, the one that I would do would be Skyline [Chili]. Just like, it’s such a representation for Cincinnati. Very unique to the area. … It’s very acquired. You have to eat at least three or four times when you’re drunk to really, truly appreciate it.” His playful take on the local delicacy showcased the unique culture of Cincinnati and how intertwined it is with the identity of its athletes.
The Kelce Brothers’ College Careers
Both brothers have impressive college football backgrounds that laid the foundation for their successful NFL careers. Jason Kelce attended the University of Cincinnati from 2006 to 2010. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft and has since become one of the best sixth-round picks in NFL history. With six First-Team All-Pro honors under his belt, he played a pivotal role in helping the Eagles secure their first Super Bowl title.
On the other hand, Travis Kelce played at Cincinnati from 2008 to 2012 before being selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft. He has established himself as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, contributing to three Super Bowl victories and earning All-Pro honors seven times. His recent achievement of setting the Chiefs’ record for career receiving touchdowns is a testament to his skill and determination on the field.
The Impact of NIL in College Sports
The NIL era has transformed the landscape of college athletics, allowing student-athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness. This shift has opened doors for many young athletes, giving them the chance to secure financial stability while still pursuing their education and sports careers.
Imagine how different the Kelce brothers’ college experiences could have been with the opportunity to earn from their popularity. The chance to partner with local businesses like Adriatico’s Pizza or Skyline Chili could have not only provided them with income but also strengthened their ties to the Cincinnati community.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL season progresses, both Travis and Jason Kelce continue to make headlines. Travis is focused on helping the Kansas City Chiefs return to the Super Bowl, while Jason remains a key player for the Philadelphia Eagles. Their journeys serve as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, showcasing the importance of hard work and dedication.
The conversation about NIL deals and college sports is ongoing, and it’s essential to consider how these changes will impact future generations of athletes. Will we see more players like the Kelce brothers benefiting from their college fame? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the landscape of college football is evolving, and the opportunities are expanding.
In this new era, who knows what exciting partnerships and endorsements await the next generation of college athletes? The future looks bright, and we can’t wait to see how it unfolds!
