‘I Lost Weight to Model for My Brand!’ – Jason Kelce’s Underdog Apparel Says No to Chinese Products!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Jason Kelce has always been a man of principles. Known for his grit and resilience as a six-time All-Pro center for the Philadelphia Eagles, Kelce spent 13 years in the NFL proving doubters wrong. But when he retired in March 2024, he didn’t leave his fighting spirit behind — he brought it to his next venture, Underdog Apparel. And in a world of fast fashion and overseas manufacturing, Kelce made a bold decision: “No Chinese products. No fast fashion. Only American-made.”
Underdog Apparel, launched in April 2025, isn’t just another celebrity brand. For Kelce, it’s a statement. After a career built on hard work, honesty, and loyalty, he wanted his brand to reflect those same values. Partnering with American Giant, a company known for its high-quality, U.S.-made clothing, Kelce designed durable sweatshirts and T-shirts that live up to his standards. “I didn’t want to sell anything I wouldn’t wear myself,” Kelce explained. “Quality matters. Integrity matters. And supporting American workers matters.”
But that wasn’t enough for the former NFL star. Determined to lead by example, Kelce set a personal goal: to transform his own physique and become the perfect model for his brand. “I lost weight to model for my brand,” Kelce revealed proudly. Once a 295-pound powerhouse on the football field, he slimmed down to around 275 pounds, focusing on health and fitness. His commitment wasn’t just about appearance — it was about living the message his brand represents.
That message is clear: resilience, authenticity, and a relentless work ethic. The brand’s motto, “Hungry Dogs Run Faster,” is a nod to Kelce’s unforgettable speech during the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory celebration in 2018. But now, it’s more than just words — it’s a brand philosophy. Every item in the Underdog Apparel lineup is 100% American-made, crafted with premium materials and designed to last. No cheap imports. No shortcuts.
“I could have gone the easy route,” Kelce admitted. “Get products made overseas, use cheap labor, maximize profits. But that’s not who I am, and that’s not what I want this brand to be.” Instead, he chose to invest in American manufacturing, creating jobs and supporting local communities. His decision to avoid Chinese-made goods is a direct challenge to the fast fashion industry, where low-cost, low-quality products flood the market.
But Kelce’s commitment doesn’t stop at quality. Profits from Underdog Apparel support the Be Philly Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering local youth through education, mentorship, and economic opportunities. For Kelce, it’s a way to give back to the city that has given him so much. “Philadelphia has always been about the underdog spirit,” he explained. “This brand is my way of keeping that spirit alive.”
Fans have embraced the brand, praising Kelce’s integrity and commitment to American-made quality. Social media posts show Kelce modeling his own products, his new, leaner physique a testament to his dedication. One fan tweeted, “Jason Kelce doesn’t just talk about being an underdog — he lives it.” Another wrote, “Finally, a brand that stands for something real.”
In a world where many celebrity brands feel shallow and disconnected, Jason Kelce’s Underdog Apparel stands apart. It’s more than just clothing — it’s a statement of values, a commitment to quality, and a promise to give back. As Kelce continues to lead by example, his brand is quickly becoming a symbol of American resilience.
“I want people to wear this brand and know they’re part of something real,” Kelce said. “No shortcuts. No Chinese products. Just quality, integrity, and the underdog spirit.”