Former NFL quarterback Drew Brees announced Friday that restaurant chain Walk-Ons, in which he owns a stake, will honor Jason Kelce after the Philadelphia Eagles’ All-Pro center announced he’s retiring from the NFL on Monday.
Walk-Ons was founded by Brandon Landry and Jack Warner, who were walk-ons for the LSU men’s basketball team. The business will salute Kelce by giving scholarships to 13 walk-on athletes. Kelce famously walked on as a linebacker for the University of Cincinnati before switching to offensive line.
“These scholarships represent more than just financial aid,” Brees said. “They’re a salute to the relentless spirit and unwavering dedication that drives athletes to excel, mirroring the qualities that Jason Kelce showcased throughout his career.
“With this initiative, your inspirational spirit will continue to guide and motivate future generations,” Brees continued. “Thank you and here’s to the spirit of the walk-on.”
Kelce went on to be named second-team All-Big East on two occasions and was selected in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL draft by Philadelphia.
He spent his entire 13-year career there and was named All-Pro six times. He almost certainly eventually will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame—not bad for a walk-on.
