Photo via BBC Sport

'Ran through me' & 'good value in pub' - ex-NFL star Kelce tries rugby

Former NFL star Jason Kelce made an unexpected appearance in a rugby training match this week, joining Old Streetonians for a 30-minute friendly against Hackney RFC at London’s Hackney Marshes. The 38-year-old, a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles and brother of Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, took to the field as part of his ongoing sports exploration for his YouTube channel.

Though he initially struggled with rugby’s rules—earning an early penalty for picking the ball up incorrectly—Kelce quickly adapted, showcasing his physicality by running through an opponent later in the game. His former Eagles teammate Beau Allen also participated, adding star power to the matchup.

Hackney players described Kelce as humble and eager, embracing the sport’s physical demands despite his NFL background. The encounter left local rugby fans buzzing, with one player joking about the novelty of facing Taylor Swift’s brother-in-law on the pitch.

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