Drew Brees is full of admiration for Jason Kelce.
Brees is co-owner of Walk-On Sports Bistro, and the restaurant chain announced Saturday that it will award scholarships to 13 walk-on student-athletes from around the country.
This is, in many ways, an ode to Kelce.
Kelce just recently announced that he would be retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons and was a walk-on in Cincinnati before playing his entire professional career with the Eagles.
“We love celebrating the underdog spirit and hustle,” Brees said in an announcement video posted to Instagram. “Like our founder Brandon Landry, a walk-on basketball player for the LSU Tigers, and my brother Reed Brees, a walk-on baseball player at Baylor University who is a member of Baylor University’s College World Series team. is.
“And Jason Kelce, President of the NFL. First, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Jason Kelce on his extraordinary 13-year career in the NFL. From his days as a reserve player at the University of Cincinnati, he became one of the most respected players in the NFL. Jason’s path to becoming one of the most popular names in the world has been incredible.
“In commemoration of the retirement of Jason Kelce and his 13 amazing seasons, we here at Walk-Ons extend our deepest condolences. We have awarded 13 scholarships to college walk-on athletes across the country. These scholarships mean more than just financial aid. They are a tribute to the relentless spirit and unwavering dedication that drive athletes to excellence, qualities Jason Kelce has demonstrated throughout his career. is reflected.
“Jason, your legacy goes beyond ironclads. It is about heart, unyielding perseverance, and a deep belief in your own potential. Through this work, your spirit of inspiration will continue to guide generations to come. , it’s going to be motivating. Thank you. That’s the walk-on spirit.”
Kelce, a seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time first-team All-Pro selection, appeared overcome with emotion when he announced his retirement earlier this week.
“It took a lot of hard work and determination to get to this point,” Kelce said. “I’ve been an underdog my entire career. When I say this, what I’m saying is, I wish I was still a loser.”
