Jason Kelce could soon take on a bigger role at ESPN as the network prepares for a major year of NFL coverage. Following its merger with NFL Network and ahead of its first-ever Super Bowl broadcast, ESPN is reportedly considering several changes to its football coverage team, with Kelce emerging as a leading candidate for a prominent position.
ESPN reportedly eyeing Jason Kelse for new role
According to a report from “The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand“, ESPN is considering Kelce as a game analyst for its No. 2 NFL broadcast team. The former Philadelphia Eagles center joined the network in 2024 after retiring from professional football and currently serves on ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” pregame show.
If the move happens, Kelce would expand his responsibilities beyond studio analysis and step into a game-calling role. While ESPN will not continue its “Monday Night Football” doubleheaders in 2026, the network still plans to air eight additional NFL games outside its regular Monday night schedule.
Those broadcasts include five international contests scheduled for London, Paris, and Madrid. Although Kelce likely would not work all eight games, he could appear on several of the broadcasts if ESPN finalizes the change.
Kelce has quickly become one of the most recognizable voices in sports media since retiring from the NFL. Along with his ESPN duties, he co-hosts the highly successful “New Heights” podcast with his brother, Travis Kelce. His opinions frequently generate discussion among fans, including his recent criticism of the NFL’s scheduling changes.
Marchand reported that ESPN is also considering Louis Riddick and Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner for analyst roles. Meanwhile, Chris Fowler is expected to remain focused on the network’s college football coverage.
The report added that ESPN is looking at Dave Pasch and Bob Wischusen for play-by-play duties on the additional NFL broadcasts.
The potential changes come as ESPN continues reshaping its football coverage ahead of Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles. With Kelce’s popularity continuing to grow, the network appears eager to increase his presence across its NFL programming.
