PHILADELPHIA — Jason Kelce is certainly recognized as a “personality hire.”

This is precisely why ESPN pursued his broadcasting abilities for the 2024 NFL season.

“He kept asking, ‘What do you need from me? What are your expectations?’ And we told him, ‘We just want you to be yourself,’” shared ESPN vice president of production, Seth Markman, with YSL News Sports.

Kelce has joined the cast of “Monday Night Countdown” alongside Scott Van Pelt, Marcus Spears, and Ryan Clark. Every network that broadcasts NFL games sought out the former center of the Philadelphia Eagles due to his captivating presence.

“He’s something special. His style is different. His voice is unique,” said Markman, who oversees ESPN’s college football and NFL studio shows. “He doesn’t fit the mold of a standard NFL analyst.”

Kelce kicked off Monday’s “Countdown” by sporting a striking kelly-green Italian tracksuit, energizing the enthusiastic crowd outside Lincoln Financial Field. With music blaring from a DJ, Kelce excitedly introduced his former Eagles teammates, Fletcher Cox and Nick Foles, who were honored ahead of the game.

“People view him as relatable, as one of their own,” Markman noted. “He’s incredibly likable, and that really resonates.”

As he made his way to the “Countdown” set, Kelce playfully high-fived fans, reminiscent of his years paving the way for Eagles ball-carriers during his 13-year NFL tenure. After taking his seat between Spears and Clark, he wiped his forehead and hands with a blue towel.

“I’m not sure I have any more energy left,” he joked.

During the broadcast, Kelce candidly discussed the Carolina Panthers’ situation after they decided to bench second-year quarterback Bryce Young. He made a humorous observation about a referee’s agility during Justin Jefferson’s 97-yard touchdown play and acknowledged fans who chanted his name and waved his jersey during a commercial break.

“This city is truly amazing,” Kelce expressed on-air. “It really is something special.”

In order to accommodate Kelce on “Countdown,” ESPN decided to part ways with Robert Griffin III, a move framed as a financial choice. Markman acknowledged potential concerns about chemistry with a new member joining the team but felt confident about Kelce’s fit given his rising popularity from his podcast and his brother Travis’ high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift. When the idea of incorporating Kelce into the “Countdown” crew was proposed, everyone was open to it.

“He definitely draws a lot of attention here,” Markman stated. “But these guys are incredibly team-oriented and understand that bringing him on board benefits the show.”

In the third quarter of Monday’s game, Kelce also participated from the ESPN broadcast booth alongside Joe Buck and Troy Aikman. Kelce had shown interest in this role, and a home game for the Eagles was an opportune time to try it out while aiming for the commentary to feel organic and not just a celebrity guest spot.

“I think it improved as it progressed,” Kelce shared in a brief chat after leaving the booth.

Navigating his role between two seasoned commentators who have worked together for 23 seasons posed a challenge. Kelce discussed his retirement press conference and utilized that opportunity to analyze the games of his successor, Eagles center Cam Jurgens. He remained engaged until the fourth quarter as the Eagles executed a lengthy nine-minute drive.

As a tribute to Kelce, the Eagles successfully pulled off two “Tush Push” plays, including a one-yard touchdown by Jalen Hurts to take the lead.

“(Buck and Aikman) set me up nicely a few times,” Kelce remarked. “Everyone witnessed the criticism Tom Brady faced after his first-week performance, but he bounced back impressively this week. Experiencing that pressure firsthand taught me how tough that really is.”

“When you’re doing it live, in the moment, it’s quite challenging.”

Markman believes Kelce has the potential to become an excellent color commentator in the future. For now, “Countdown” aligns better with his lifestyle, although he might consider calling games eventually.

“It’s enjoyable to be on this side,” Kelce said during the broadcast.

Many networks would have jumped at the chance to bring Kelce on board in any role. In his first meeting with ESPN, he shared how much “MNF” meant to him and his brother while growing up in Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

“I believe that gave us an advantage, considering our relationships and his feelings toward our brand,” Markman added. “Honestly, I knew other networks were pursuing him. It was a hopeful situation, but until his agent confirmed his decision, I felt uncertain. When we finally received the good news, it was a fantastic moment.”

Kelce expressed his appreciation for the on-location format of “Countdown,” as he thrives on the energy of his environment. He also affirmed how significant ESPN was to him during his childhood.

“Growing up, ESPN was a big part of our family life,” he shared.

Those who used to tape his ankles have now taken on roles as producers offering insights. The security personnel he greeted daily on Broad Street are now responsible for sound engineering.

“There are quite a few parallels to participating in sports,” Kelce remarked regarding his transition into broadcasting.

Kelce’s involvement is a strategic move as ESPN enhances the star quality of its “MNF” franchise in recent times. The “Manningcast,” featuring Peyton and Eli Manning, quickly became popular during the 2021 season. The transition of Buck and Aikman from FOX to “MNF” resolved the search for a competent broadcasting trio. In 2024, Bill Belichick will join the “Manningcast” for every episode.

“We’ve made a deliberate effort to prioritize ‘Monday Night Football’ as our flagship program, ensuring we showcase prominent and exceptional personalities,” explained Markman. “This is why we feel optimistic about adding Bill and Jason this year – it truly matters to us.”