Did Andy Reid draft Travis Kelce because of Jason Kelce? know as Chiefs Coach reminisces his fondest NFL draft memory

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid took a nostalgic pause to reflect on what he cherishes most about the annual event. During a press conference earlier this week, Reid reminisced about some of his favorite draft moments—naturally, Travis Kelce and his older brother Jason Kelce were part of that reflection.

Reid Recalls Draft Day Connection Between Travis and Jason Kelce

Reid, who previously coached Jason Kelce during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, shared a lighthearted memory that speaks to his long-standing connection with both brothers.

“Yeah that’s kind of a neat thing. I’m getting old enough now where you have a Travis Kelce and his brother (Jason Kelce) sitting right next to him who I drafted – or had an opportunity to draft in Philadelphia. Here I can talk to both of them and tell them, ‘Hey listen, you get your little brother in line, I can take him right here,’” Reid joked.

He continued by pointing out how meaningful these types of moments are for a coach who's spent decades watching generations of athletes evolve.

“It’s kind of fun doing that but there are situations like that or maybe it’s a son of a kid that I coached.”

Seeing Generations Come Full Circle

Coach Reid highlighted how the Draft often brings full-circle moments—like coaching a former player’s child. He referenced an example involving Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock and his father, Andy Lock, who once played at Missouri.

“We just talked about (former Mizzou OL) Andy Lock, when (Seahawks QB) Drew (Lock) was coming out. Here I have an opportunity to evaluate him and see where he gets picked. Those situations are kind of neat to go through, but I’ve had so many great experiences.”

The Emotional Joy of Changing a Young Player’s Life

For Reid, the real joy of the NFL Draft is rooted in the ability to change a young athlete's life forever. Even after all these years, the moment a draftee walks across the stage remains just as powerful.

“There’s a certain satisfaction that you get and even though it’s a little bit selfish, it’s also (that) you’re happy for the kid but you’re able to give somebody an opportunity to play in the National Football League,” Reid said. “I mean what an honor that is and these guys appreciate that. You see all those – top guys that are sitting in the first round, these are big names and they’re so excited to get up there with (NFL Commissioner) Roger Goodell and throw him up in the air and do whatever they do with him there but yeah that’s pure excitement.”

The Countdown Begins for Another Memorable NFL Draft

Coach Reid, along with the other 31 NFL head coaches, will once again be part of this life-changing experience when the 2025 NFL Draft kicks off on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET. As he prepares to potentially welcome the next generation of NFL stars, it’s clear that for Andy Reid, the Draft is about more than just roster-building—it’s about family, legacy, and unforgettable moments.