The NFL’s 2025 season opener between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs is shaping up to be a spectacle — not just on the field but also behind the scenes in the broadcast world. While YouTube secured a Hall of Fame quarterback to headline its exclusive coverage of the Week 1 clash in São Paulo, Brazil, fans hoping to see Jason Kelce join the stream will be left disappointed.
ESPN restricts Jason Kelce from making guest appearance
According to Ryan Glasspiegel of Front Office Sports, YouTube approached Jason Kelce about appearing on its coverage of the highly anticipated Chargers-Chiefs matchup. The former Philadelphia Eagles center, now a rising media personality, seemed like a natural fit given his strong ties to the Chiefs through his brother, Travis Kelce. However, ESPN reportedly blocked the move.Kelce, who signed a multi-year contract with ESPN last year to serve as an analyst on Monday Night Football, is restricted by a new company policy. The network has decided that on-air talent will no longer be permitted to appear on coverage from competitors such as YouTube or Netflix.Interestingly, this is a shift from last season when ESPN allowed Mina Kimes and Laura Rutledge to take part in Netflix’s Christmas Day doubleheader studio show. But with streaming platforms increasingly entering the live sports space, ESPN appears to be tightening control over its personalities.
Why YouTube wanted Jason Kelce for Chiefs opener
It’s easy to see why YouTube pursued Jason Kelce. His “New Heights” podcast with brother Travis has exploded in popularity, drawing even bigger attention recently with Taylor Swift’s appearance. The pop icon’s relationship with Travis Kelce has amplified media buzz, making Jason a hot commodity for any NFL-related broadcast.Also Read: Tom Brady’s son Jack ditches stepmom Gisele Bündchen for special outing with his birth mother Bridget MoynahanWhile Jason Kelce won’t be part of the opener, the Chiefs-Chargers clash still promises major storylines — from Justin Herbert leading the Chargers’ new-look offense to Patrick Mahomes beginning Kansas City’s title defense. But for fans of the Kelce brothers, it’s clear ESPN’s decision leaves a noticeable gap in YouTube’s coverage.
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