When it comes to life after the NFL, many players face uncertainty. But not the Kelce brothers. Jason and Travis Kelce are not just planning for life after football—they’re actively cashing in on themselves. For those outside the marketing world, their strategies offer a compelling case study in how to leverage personal branding for long-term success.
Building a Brand Beyond the Game
Both Jason and Travis Kelce have capitalized on their on-field success to create off-field opportunities that extend their brand far beyond football. The key to their success lies in their ability to connect with audiences in a way that feels authentic and relatable, something that marketers strive to achieve with any brand.
- New Heights Podcast: A Platform for Personal Branding
One of the most notable ventures is their podcast, New Heights, produced by Wondery. Launched in September 2022, the podcast became an instant hit, landing among the top sports podcasts on Apple and Spotify. The brothers’ banter, combined with their unique perspectives as NFL insiders, has attracted a loyal following. But this isn’t just about entertaining fans—it’s about establishing a platform where the Kelces control the narrative, engage directly with their audience, and build a brand that can outlast their football careers.
The success of New Heights shows how crucial it is to create content that resonates with your core audience. For the Kelces, this content extends their personalities and values beyond the field, positioning them as influencers in the sports world and beyond.
- Product Endorsements: Leveraging Popularity for Profit
The Kelces are also making smart moves in the world of product endorsements. Recently, they partnered with General Mills to launch a limited-edition cereal, “Kelce Krunch.” This collaboration not only ties into their football fame but also taps into their growing influence in the food industry. It’s a savvy move, turning their popularity into a tangible product that fans can literally buy into.
In another smart partnership, Jason Kelce joined forces with Buffalo Wild Wings for an NFL-themed advertising campaign. This partnership further cements his status as a marketable personality, leveraging his tough, relatable image to resonate with fans and consumers alike.
These endorsements show how the Kelces are monetizing their personas in ways that are directly tied to their brand identities. For marketers, it’s a reminder of the importance of aligning partnerships with the values and image of the brand (or individual) you’re promoting.
The Long Game: Planning for Post-NFL Success
For Jason, life after football is happening since announcing his retirement from the NFL recently, and he’s setting himself up for continued success. Travis, though still in the prime of his career, is clearly laying the groundwork for his post-NFL life. By diversifying their interests and building a strong personal brand, the Kelce brothers are ensuring they’ll continue to thrive long after they hang up their cleats.
For those outside the industry, the takeaway is clear: successful personal branding is about more than just fame—it’s about strategic planning, authenticity, and connecting with your audience on a deeper level. The Kelces are doing this brilliantly, setting a blueprint for other athletes (and public figures) to follow.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re in marketing or not, there’s a lot to learn from the Kelce brothers. They’ve taken their on-field success and turned it into a multi-faceted brand that reaches far beyond football. By understanding their audience, staying true to their brand, and planning strategically, they’re ensuring their success well into the future.
For anyone looking to build a brand—personal or otherwise—the Kelces’ story is an inspiring example of how to do it right.
