Former Eagles Star Jason Kelce Reveals His Big Problem With NFL Kickers

On the latest episode of the “New Heights” podcast, former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce didn’t hold back in sharing his thoughts on one specific part of football that he believes has shifted too far from the game’s original spirit.

Jason expressed strong opinions about kickers and their role in modern football. “Kickers are making 60-yarders like it’s routine,” he said.

Jason, joined by his brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, argued that kickers have become too influential in determining game outcomes and making increasingly longer field goals with ease.

The NFL great went on to suggest that the league should consider narrowing field goals or even getting rid of the position altogether.

“We need to make kickers way less valuable. That’s not what football is about,” he stated.

Jason also voiced his frustration over the game’s reliance on kickers for field goals, proposing that it could even change the way teams strategize. According to him, the NFL should consider changes like switching to rugby-style goalposts or even removing the traditional upright entirely, in favor of a single post.

He explained, “Instead of kicking it through the uprights, just hit one big post for three points. I don’t want these guys going out there in soccer shoes and deciding games.”

Travis, however, was quick to defend kickers. He reminded Jason of the thrill and excitement that field goals bring to the game, especially during critical moments.

“What, everything’s gotta be a Hail Mary now?” Travis asked, pointing out that long field goals often make for exciting finishes.

But Jason remained unconvinced, arguing that kickers' roles should not overshadow traditional football plays. He even recalled discussing this with former Eagles linebacker Connor Barwin, suggesting they both felt the NFL should move away from specialist positions like kickers and long snappers.

“Kickers should not be influencing football games as much as they are right now,” Jason asserted.

Jason did acknowledge the skill of his former teammate, Eagles kicker Jake Elliott, calling him “a great kicker” but clarifying that he simply disagrees with the way kicking influences the game.

Travis pointed out that his own kicker, Chiefs' Harrison Butker, has secured multiple victories with his clutch kicks, proving just how important the position can be.

Related: Travis Kelce Reveals Secret Childhood Nicknames