Former NFL star Jason Kelce surprised amateur players in London by playing a rugby union match for Old Streetonians.
Amateur rugby players in London experienced a major surprise this week when a former Super Bowl champion joined their opposing team for a friendly match, according to information published by BBC.
Jason Kelce, the 38-year-old former Philadelphia Eagles center, participated in a 30-minute training game at Hackney Marshes while visiting the United Kingdom for an upcoming NFL fixture.
The sporting crossover occurred as part of a YouTube content project, with Kelce receiving coaching from former England prop Joe Marler to learn the fundamentals of rugby union.
Jason Kelce rugby experience with Old Streetonians
Hackney RFC players rocked up on Wednesday for what they expected to be a standard training session, only to find the high-profile American football star lining up for local rivals Old Streetonians.
Peter Scott, a full-back for Hackney, joked about the surreal nature of the event, noting that playing against Taylor Swift's brother-in-law makes for a unique conversation starter within the local sporting community.
During the friendly clash, Kelce was positioned as a number 8, a role that local players felt suited his broad shoulders, powerful legs, and imposing physical presence on the pitch.
Tackling the rules of rugby union
Dave Lewis, a prop for Hackney, recounted the physical battles on the pitch, sharing how he initially managed to put the former Super Bowl champion on his back during a play.
However, Lewis quickly learned about Kelce's resilience when the former NFL lineman later returned the favor, running directly through him with impressive force and determination.
Hackney players noted that Kelce adapted quickly to the sport, despite initially making a minor error by picking up the ball from the back of a ruck before understanding the specific penalties.
Embracing British pub culture in London
After the final whistle blew on the Hackney Marshes pitch, Kelce and former Philadelphia Eagles team-mate Beau Allen fully embraced local traditions by visiting a nearby British pub.
Will Gilgrass, chairman of Old Street, praised the visiting athletes for putting their bank cards behind the bar, chatting with local players, and even participating in team initiations by singing and downing a pint.
An American film crew accompanying the former NFL stars also interviewed local players, capturing reactions to Kelce's exceptional leg drive and explosive power during the rugby match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Jason Kelce playing rugby in London?
Jason Kelce was in England to commentate on the NFL London game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Jacksonville Jaguars, and he played rugby as part of a YouTube content project.
Which NFL team did Jason Kelce play for?
Jason Kelce spent his entire 13-year NFL career playing as a center for the Philadelphia Eagles, winning Super Bowl LII in 2018.
How did local rugby players react to tackling Jason Kelce?
Amateur players from Hackney RFC described Kelce as an intimidating and powerful figure who embraced the physicality of rugby union before joining them for drinks at a local pub.
