Jason Kelce Defends Brother Travis Following Backlash After Chugging Beer While Getting Diploma

Jason Kelce always has his brother's back. The Philadelphia Eagles star took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to defend Travis Kelce against backlash for chugging a beer during a surprise commencement ceremony in their honor at the University of Cincinnati. 

It all started last week when the NFL sibling stars took over the school's Fifth Third Arena for a live show that included the inaugural Lombaby Games competition and a taping of their popular New Heights podcast. At one point, the pair donned full caps and gowns as they were finally officially presented with their diplomas from University of Cincinnati President Dr. Neville Pinto. Travis celebrated the meaningful moment by gulping down a beer on stage while the Beastie Boys' 1986 hit, "(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (to Party)," fittingly played in the background. 

Jason replied to one user on X who questioned Travis' "antics," explaining that the moment was more lighthearted than it may have appeared in photos. 

"I know it looks like a graduation from the video, but this was actually at the end of a New Heights Live podcast that we put on to raise money for the University's NIL," he explained. "The university did this to poke fun at my brother and I for never really picking up our diplomas."

According to The Cincinnati Inquirer, Jason previously received his degree in marketing but did not attend his class commencement ceremony in 2010. As for Travis, who attended the university from 2008-2012, the outlet states that he completed his remaining credit hours in 2022 to earn his degree in interdisciplinary studies.

As for the fundraising aspect of the show, "NIL" refers to the the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association)'s interim "Name, Image, Likeness" policy that allows student athletes to earn money from their personal brand. 

The whole event was a family affair, with Jason and Travis posing for a photo op with their proud parents, Ed Kelce and Donna Kelce. Jason's wife, Kylie Kelce, was also in the audience. 

Travis' girlfriend, Taylor Swift, did not appear to be in attendance, but her presence was certainly felt. At one point, Travis was seen enthusiastically moving his hips and dancing along to a marching band rendition of Taylor's "Shake It Off." Travis, of course, immediately chimed in saying, "Oh, I know this one!" 

Days later, Travis and Taylor were spotted enjoying a low-key sushi date night in Los Angeles followed by a whirlwind visit to Indio, California, for the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. 

The "Cruel Summer" singer and the Kansas City Chiefs tight end were seen happily embracing, dancing and even making out while enjoying the festivities. 

Taylor is gearing up to release her 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department, on April 19. Then, next month, Travis will host his second annual Kelce Jam music fest, presented by Jim Beam. The festival goes down May 18 at Azura Amphitheater in Kansas City, Missouri. Some of this year's featured artists include Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz and Diplo. 

Amid their busy schedules, a source recently told ET that "Taylor and Travis are soaking up their downtime together. They are appreciating the here and now and the love they share with one other. When they're able to just chill out, they love to hang out with their friends and family, travel, see new things together, and enjoy their privacy."

The source added, "They are grateful to have each other along for the ride and advocate and support each other across the board. While they're enjoying this moment, they're looking forward to what the future holds too. They want to continue to grow together and be happy and healthy. Their friends and family are still as supportive as ever."

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