'Beautiful story of friendship': Jason Kelce lauded for kind gesture toward Eagles trainer who missed his last game due to cancer

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA: Jason Kelce once again warmed hearts when his trainer from the Philadelphia Eagles shared a touching story. The Eagles star offered to have him tape him during his retirement announcement press conference.

This gesture came after the trainer, Joseph O'Pella, missed Jason's last game of his NFL career as he is battling cancer. Many people online were moved by the beautiful friendship between the two.

Jason's retirement after his 13-year NFL career stirred emotions across social media. Travis Kelce, tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs and Jason's brother, paid tribute by wearing a shirt with Jason's image in a photo announcing a new episode of their podcast, 'New Heights'.

In a recent episode of 'New Heights', Jason also revealed his plans for the future. He shared with his brother Travis his desire to embark on a journey of self-discovery, which includes losing weight and exploring new hobbies as he transitions away from football.

Joseph O'Pella reveals he taped Jason Kelce in his last game

As reported by Fox News, O'Pella served as the Philadelphia Eagles' trainer for Jason's entire career, and the two developed a close bond. Given Jason's role as the center, he often needed taping, particularly on his fingers and ankles, which became a distinctive feature of his appearance in Philadelphia.

O'Pella has been facing a battle with cancer, leading to his absence from the team due to treatments. However, Jason's gesture toward O'Pella has stirred emotions online.

In an Instagram post, O'Pella reflected on his time with the Eagles and shared about his bond with Jason.

He began by recalling fond memories with Jason, expressing, "You all know about the on-field accomplishments, and many of the off-the-field ones too, but what this man has meant to me and now my family over the past decade plus is nearly indescribable. From being his Wing Bowl “cornerman”, to hour long rehab sessions followed by nights out on the town, to sleeping on each other’s couches to being at each other’s weddings, to Sea Isle City Polar Bear Plunges to Super Bowl appearances and a ring, we were there doing it together."

Additionally, O'Pella shared that during Jason's last season, when O'Pella was battling cancer and undergoing treatment, Jason offered his shore house for a getaway, offered to cover meal expenses for him and his wife, and regularly checked in with him over the phone while O'Pella was too ill from chemotherapy to come to work.

O'Pella disclosed how Jason extended the offer to have him tape him at his retirement press conference, expressing, "I taped this guy’s ankles and thumbs everyday for 13 seasons, and when he played his last game in Tampa, again I couldn’t be there due to cancer. And when he told me he would be retiring and I expressed my regret of not being the last person to ever tape him, and he offered to have me tape him for his retirement press conference. That’s who he is. And I hope these stories can add to an already unbelievable legacy."

According to Fox News, O'Pella was too unwell to attend the wild-card round against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which turned out to be Kelce's final game, as the Eagles suffered a 32-9 loss to the Bucs, ending their playoff run.

Internet calls Joseph O'Pella and Jason Kelce's friendship 'incredible'

A user wrote, "I’m sobbing over here! What a beautiful story of friendship, dedication, unconditional love & compassion! Thanks for sharing this with us- NO GO KICK C#%#%#% A**!!👊🏾"

Another said, "Just when I thought I couldn’t think more highly of Jason Kelce…"

A user commented, "I’m crying in the club!! And by club I mean training room 😭 What an incredible friendship and partnership for all these years!!"

Someone else noted, "Truly incredible @trainerjoeo ! Thank you for sharing and what a beautiful tribute! Continuing to pray for you, Joe, and keep fighting! 🙏🏻"

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