Jason Kelce Breaks Down in Tears Honoring Eagles Teammate Tyler Steen’s Grandfather, Vietnam War Hero Sgt. Rodney Davis, on Live NFL Broadcast

Jason Kelce broke down in tears during an emotional Veterans Day segment on ESPN’s Monday Night Football, paying tribute to Eagles guard Tyler Steen’s grandfather, Sgt. Rodney M. Davis — a Medal of Honor recipient who sacrificed his life during the Vietnam War.

The heartfelt moment unfolded ahead of the Philadelphia Eagles’ Monday night clash against the Green Bay Packers. As part of a special Veterans Day broadcast, the retired Eagles center turned ESPN analyst delivered a moving tribute to Davis’ heroism, recalling how the Marine sergeant threw himself on a grenade in 1967 to save his fellow soldiers.

Jason Kelce’s Emotional Tribute During Live NFL Broadcast

Kelce’s voice cracked as he described Sgt. Davis’ act of bravery, a moment that left fans and fellow analysts visibly emotional. “He saved five other soldiers on that day,” Kelce said, his voice trembling. “Those soldiers went on to have kids. Probably 50 people are alive today because of that decision.”

The tribute came as the NFL and its broadcast partners honored American service members on Veterans Day. Kelce, known for his passion and authenticity, spoke about how Davis’ sacrifice allowed future generations — including his grandson, Tyler Steen — to live and thrive. “He did that, leaving behind a two-year-old little girl,” Kelce continued. “As Veterans Day approaches, it’s a reminder of the sacrifice that so many make so we can sit here and enjoy this game.”

Davis’ story has long resonated in military circles. Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Richard Nixon, the Marine sergeant’s heroism is still studied as an example of ultimate selflessness. The White House citation described how Davis moved from soldier to soldier under enemy fire, encouraging his men until an enemy grenade fell into their trench — a grenade he shielded with his own body.

Tyler Steen Carries On His Grandfather’s Legacy

Tyler Steen, now in his second season with the Eagles, carries his family’s legacy with immense pride. His mother, Samantha J. Davis-Steen — Sgt. Davis’ daughter — once reflected in a 2022 ESPN interview, “As a kid, I thought, ‘Why my dad?’ But then I realized how brave it was, how incredible it was that he did that to save others. I felt pride because he did it.”

For Kelce, who spent a season as Steen’s teammate before transitioning to broadcasting, the connection is deeply personal. His tribute served not only as recognition of Davis’ courage but also as a reminder of the human stories behind NFL players and their families. The segment struck a chord with viewers, many taking to social media to thank Kelce for “reminding America what true heroism looks like.”

How the Tribute Resonated Beyond Football

The powerful moment demonstrated why Kelce continues to be admired long after retirement — his authenticity and compassion transcend the game. The broadcast was a poignant blend of remembrance and respect, tying together football, family, and patriotism on one of America’s most meaningful days of the year.

The story of Sgt. Rodney M. Davis — and the emotional way Kelce retold it — reminded viewers that the NFL, at its best, can spotlight more than touchdowns and statistics. It can celebrate courage, sacrifice, and the bonds that define both soldiers and teammates.

Jason Kelce’s tearful moment honoring Tyler Steen’s grandfather left fans across the country deeply moved, reaffirming his place as not just a football legend but one of the sport’s most genuine voices.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is Sgt. Rodney M. Davis?

Sgt. Rodney M. Davis was a U.S. Marine who received the Medal of Honor posthumously in 1967 for throwing himself on a grenade in Vietnam to save fellow soldiers.

Q2: Why did Jason Kelce cry on live TV?

Jason Kelce cried during ESPN’s Monday Night Football broadcast while honoring his former Eagles teammate Tyler Steen’s grandfather, a fallen war hero, on Veterans Day.

Q3: What team did Tyler Steen play for?

Tyler Steen plays as an offensive guard for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL.

Q4: When did Sgt. Davis receive the Medal of Honor?

He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Richard Nixon in 1969 for his heroic actions in Vietnam in 1967.

Q5: What role does Jason Kelce have now?

After retiring from the NFL, Jason Kelce became a football analyst for ESPN, regularly appearing on Monday Night Football broadcasts.