Jason Kelce Moved to Tears While Honoring New Orleans Terror Attack Victims

Former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce experienced an emotional moment while reflecting on the victims of the tragic New Orleans terrorist attack. The 35-year-old athlete’s heartfelt segment aired during ESPN’s Super Bowl pregame coverage, highlighting the story of Ryan Quigley, an Eagles fan who survived the horrific event.

The broadcast detailed Quigley’s harrowing experience, which brought Kelce to tears. The strong emotional connection resonated with viewers across the country.

Understanding the Tragedy

Quigley was out with his friend, Tiger Bech, enjoying a night out on Bourbon Street. Their evening quickly turned to chaos when a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd, tragically killing 14 individuals.

Bech was among those who lost their lives that night, and Quigley’s injuries kept him from walking. The attack fundamentally changed Quigley’s life, leading him to vow never to return to the city where the tragedy occurred.

A New Beginning for Quigley

Although Quigley’s initial reaction was to distance himself from New Orleans, the Eagles organization reached out to offer him a special surprise. The team gifted him tickets to the Super Bowl, knowing how much the game would mean to him.

This gesture marked a significant turning point for Quigley. He made the decision to attend the game, motivated in part by a promise to his late friend, Bech.

A Promise to a Best Friend

Quigley had vowed to take his best friend to the Super Bowl if the Eagles made it to the championship. As an Eagles fan, the Super Bowl represented not just a game, but a way to honor Bech’s memory and their friendship.

As Quigley reflected on this promise, he felt compelled to support the Eagles in their quest for a second championship title in franchise history.

The Emotional Interview

Kelce spoke candidly, acknowledging the stark contrast between good and evil in the world. He emphasized the beauty and strength he saw in Quigley, even as he faced such adversity.

“Listen, there’s some awful people in this world,” Kelce remarked, pausing to find the right words. “I had the fortune of meeting Ryan. And the spirit, right there – you wouldn’t even know something happened if he wasn’t in a wheelchair before the Rams game. On one end, something terrible can happen, and on the other, something so beautiful can happen. And just happy that he’s going to be here on the behalf of Eagles fans everywhere. Hell yeah, Ryan.”

Quigley’s Journey to the Super Bowl

As Game Day approached, Quigley felt a wave of excitement mixed with the weight of the past. Attending the Super Bowl was more than just a game; it symbolized his strength and the memory of his late friend.

On Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles will compete against the Kansas City Chiefs in a much-anticipated matchup, airing at 6:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

A Unique Broadcasting Experience

For the first time, FOX’s Super Bowl coverage began at 1 p.m. ET, allowing viewers an extended preview of the day’s events. Fans can also stream the game live on Tubi, marking a new and accessible way to enjoy the championship.

Honoring the Fallen

As fans from across the nation prepare to watch the game, stories like Quigley’s remind us of the resilience of the human spirit amid tragedy. His journey illustrates the power of support, community, and the shared love for our teams.

Whether you are a passionate die-hard fan or merely tuning in for the halftime show, the emotional narratives unfolding around the Super Bowl extend far beyond the field. They remind us of connections that transcend sports and the profound impacts of tragedy and camaraderie.

A Story of Hope and Courage

Ultimately, the Super Bowl will act as a backdrop for stories like Ryan Quigley’s—a narrative intertwined with loss, loyalty, and renewal. As the Eagles take the field, they carry with them the hopes of fans like Quigley, who stand in solidarity with them, embodying the spirit of the game.

The excitement for this year’s showdown is palpable, and as the clock counts down to kickoff, Quigley joins other fans in celebrating not just the sport but the memories and friendships that football can build and honor.