Kylie Kelce delivered an emotional and inspiring speech at the Eagles Autism Foundation Symposium that left attendees in tears and fans across social media praising her heartfelt message. Joined by her husband, recently retired NFL legend Jason Kelce, and fellow Philadelphia Eagles stars like Brandon Graham and Jalen Hurts, the event became a powerful showcase of the team’s deep-rooted commitment to autism awareness and inclusion.
From Kylie’s passionate advocacy to Jason’s 10-mile ride at the Eagles Autism Challenge, the Kelces proved their dedication goes far beyond the football field. With Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie and longtime DE Brandon Graham also sharing their personal ties to the autism community, this year’s Eagles Autism Challenge was not just a charity event—it was a moment that defined the franchise’s soul. This article breaks down the emotional moments, star-studded participation, and what it all means for the future of autism inclusion in the NFL.
Kylie Kelce Brings Crowd to Tears with Emotional Speech
When Kylie Kelce took the stage at the Eagles Autism Foundation’s annual symposium, she didn’t just speak—she moved an entire room. Her words weren’t simply well-delivered; they were deeply personal, authentic, and rooted in a lifetime of lived experience. “If you shy away from the autism community you are missing out on some of the best human beings you will ever come in contact with in your life,” she told the crowd. In the audience, many wiped away tears. Melissa Hall, a fan who attended the event, shared clips of Kylie’s heartfelt speech that have since gone viral across social platforms. But this wasn’t just Kylie’s moment. This was a Kelce family moment—and a Philadelphia Eagles moment.
Together with her husband, Jason Kelce, the couple is championing autism awareness and inclusion on a scale that transcends football. At Lincoln Financial Field, just days after Kylie’s powerful speech, Jason was seen donning a helmet and a big smile for the Eagles Autism Challenge, a 10-mile bike ride through the streets of Philly. With Jason, Kylie, and the Eagles franchise itself leading the charge, the message is clear: the Eagles aren’t just about Super Bowls. They’re about showing up for their community, winning hearts, and building a legacy far beyond the gridiron.
Kylie Kelce has long been a champion of the Eagles Autism Foundation, and her connection to the cause isn’t just through marriage or celebrity. It’s deeply personal. Growing up, her neighbor Tim introduced her to the autism community. That bond sparked a lifelong passion. “The EAF encourages the conversation because the unknown keeps people away,” Kylie explained. “Spending time with them always helps me appreciate the high points in life.”
According to the Jason & Travis Kelce Fan Page, “Kylie’s speech at the Eagles Autism Symposium advocating for people with autism was inspiring, and even brought tears to some like Melissa Hall who graciously shared these clips with us from the event.” The post resonated with fans, summing up the impact of Kylie’s message: “Kylie isn’t just supporting a cause, she’s helping shape a more inclusive future. It’s inspiring to see her leading with love.”
For Kylie, the Eagles Autism Foundation is more than just a philanthropic effort. It’s a mission. And she’s bringing her husband Jason along for the journey.
Jason Kelce Embraces Life After Retirement with Purpose
Jason Kelce may have retired from professional football, but he’s showing no signs of slowing down. As Kylie once said, “He’s busier retired than he was playing football. We’re setting into sort of our new norm,” reported by EssentiallySports.
That new norm includes tee times on the golf course, co-hosting the wildly successful “New Heights” podcast with his brother Travis Kelce, and securing a high-profile broadcasting gig with ESPN. But what makes Jason’s post-retirement life truly special is his involvement in community initiatives like the Eagles Autism Challenge and his work with the Be Philly Foundation.
A Jason Kelce sighting (and signing!) at this morning Eagles Autism Run/Walk this morning. The 10-mile bike ride is about to kickoff. #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/3gHDHqZJSE
— Christopher Babos (@CBabosWrites) May 17, 2025
Jason’s presence at the Eagles Autism Challenge was more than symbolic. As captured by Christopher Babos in a post on X, Jason signed autographs and took selfies with fans before hopping on his bike. “Jason Kelce sighting (and signing!) at this morning Eagles Autism Run/Walk – The 10-mile bike ride is about to kick off,” Babos posted. Through this, Jason isn’t just riding for a cause—he’s riding with purpose.
Eagles Autism Challenge and Jeffrey Lurie’s Lifelong Connection to Autism
The Eagles Autism Challenge isn’t just a charity event—it’s a movement. Kicked off at Lincoln Financial Field, the annual run/walk and bike ride brings together players, staff, and fans with a common goal: supporting scientific research on autism and building a more inclusive society.
This year’s event had no shortage of star power. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie led the charge, joined by veterans like Brandon Graham, safety Reed Blankenship, and franchise quarterback Jalen Hurts. Graham’s infectious enthusiasm was on full display as he introduced the event with, “We’re here as an alumni, baby!”
Their participation is proof of how deeply embedded this cause is within the Eagles organization. And the support doesn’t just come from a sense of duty—it comes from personal connections.
For Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie, this cause hits close to home. When he was just six years old, his brother Peter was diagnosed with autism. That early exposure shaped his worldview. “It’s been a daily part of my life for the last 60 years – You’re so concerned with your own brother and his well-being growing up; it puts you in a mode to think of other people’s well-being than my own, which I find liberating because you can focus on how others are and not be so inward looking.”
Lurie’s dedication has not only helped raise millions through the Eagles Autism Foundation but has also made inclusion a core value of the franchise. It’s no coincidence that the Eagles are leading the NFL in community engagement efforts tied to autism awareness.
Brandon Graham: Retirement, Injury, and Redemption
While the Eagles Autism Challenge was filled with positivity, one looming question hovers around defensive end Brandon Graham—will he be back next season? At 36 years old, and after helping Philly capture another Super Bowl title, Graham’s future remains uncertain.
On The Howard Eskin Show on February 21, Graham addressed the retirement rumors, “We kinda [have been] putting it off, because just…everybody’s enjoying what’s going on. But man, I ain’t in no rush. If it’s over, it’s over, but if it’s not…let’s get it. But I am working, working either way. Imma be a part of Eagles somewhere in there.”
Even as his role may evolve off the field, Graham’s commitment to the team hasn’t wavered. “By Year 15, you usually get kicked out by the league. But when people actually want you to come back going on 16 years, it’s a good situation that I’m in,” he said. “But I want to make sure I go about it the right way.”
Brandon Graham’s NFL journey is a masterclass in resilience. From the moment he was drafted in 2010, he’s battled a series of injuries that would sideline most athletes permanently. His torn ACL and meniscus as a rookie, a high ankle sprain in 2017, and the Achilles tear in 2021 are just the tip of the iceberg.
Most recently, Graham tore his triceps in Week 12 against the Rams during what was presumed to be his final season. At first, it seemed like a crushing end. But the Eagles activated him just before the Super Bowl on February 8. That’s vintage Graham—refusing to let injuries define his legacy.
“Of course, you’re gonna always think your body is good….Especially now, for me, everything else was feeling really well other than just getting that surgery for the tricep and stuff like that,” Graham revealed. “But man, I just know that…you gotta fit in on with the team, move forward is what they’re trying to do.”
Even if he hangs up his cleats, Graham’s presence within the organization appears inevitable.
Eagles’ Legacy: More Than Just Super Bowl Rings
The Philadelphia Eagles have long been known for their passionate fan base and on-field grit. But their off-field actions—led by figures like Kylie and Jason Kelce, Brandon Graham, and Jeffrey Lurie—show that this team is about more than just football.
Events like the Eagles Autism Challenge and initiatives from the Eagles Autism Foundation, Be Philly Foundation, and community efforts from the New Heights podcast extend the team’s legacy well beyond the gridiron.
From Kylie Kelce’s stirring words—“The unknown keeps people away”—to Jason Kelce riding ten miles through Philly to support autism research, the Eagles are living proof that sports can be a vehicle for massive societal impact.
Whether it’s Brandon Graham fighting his way back from a torn triceps, Jeffrey Lurie channeling decades of personal experience into advocacy, or Kylie Kelce using her platform to push inclusion into the spotlight—these aren’t just headlines. They’re a blueprint for what leadership in sports should look like.
Kylie Kelce said it best: “Spending time with [the autism community] always helps me appreciate the high points in life.”
It’s a quote that resonates—not just because it’s heartfelt, but because it encapsulates the ethos of the Eagles organization. For Philly, community isn’t a buzzword; it’s a way of life. And whether you’re a rookie, a Hall of Famer, or a fan in the stands, you’re part of something bigger.
From Jason Kelce’s heartfelt gestures to Brandon Graham’s enduring spirit and Kylie’s emotional advocacy, this isn’t just about autism awareness. It’s about unity. It’s about family. It’s about Philly.
The Eagles aren’t just winning games—they’re changing lives.
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