The Ultimate Beard-Off: 5 Reasons The Jason Kelce Look-Alike Contest Became A Viral Sensation

The "Jason Kelce Look-Alike Contest" is far more than just a novelty event; it is a cultural phenomenon that perfectly captures the spirit of Philadelphia fandom and the enduring, lovable legend of the former Eagles center. As of today, December 13, 2025, the contest held in Rittenhouse Square remains one of the most talked-about viral moments of the past year, solidifying Kelce's status as a folk hero whose iconic look—a burly beard, a comfortable flannel, and the occasional shirtless roar—is now a costume for the ages. The sheer volume of doppelgangers who showed up, all embracing the Kelce aesthetic, turned a simple competition into a city-wide celebration of "The Brotherhood" and the unique personality of the NFL star.

The latest and most significant iteration of the contest took place on a chilly Saturday, December 14, 2024, attracting dozens of men who had clearly mastered the art of the "Kelce Core." The event was a spectacle of green jerseys, signature flip-flops, and the kind of unbridled, beer-chugging enthusiasm that Jason Kelce himself is famous for. It was a testament to the retired Eagles center's connection with the city, where his image has transcended sports to become a symbol of blue-collar grit and genuine passion. This deep dive explores the event's hilarious highlights, the surprise winner, and the priceless reactions from Jason and Kylie Kelce themselves.

The Man, The Legend: A Jason Kelce Biography Snapshot

Before diving into the chaos of the contest, it's essential to understand the man behind the iconic look. Jason Kelce’s career and personality have made him one of the most beloved figures in Philadelphia sports history, a reputation built on talent, authenticity, and unforgettable moments like his Super Bowl LII parade speech. His retirement only amplified his cultural impact, making his look-alike contest a tribute to a living legend.

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• Full Name: Jason Daniel Kelce
• Born: November 5, 1987 (Age 38 as of late 2025)
• Hometown: Cleveland Heights, Ohio
• College: University of Cincinnati
• NFL Career: Philadelphia Eagles (2011–2023)
• Position: Center (Widely regarded as one of the best to ever play the position)
• Key Achievements: Super Bowl LII Champion, 7x Pro Bowl selection, 6x First-team All-Pro.
• Family Life: Married to Kylie Kelce, with three daughters. He is the older brother of Kansas City Chiefs tight end, Travis Kelce.
• Media Presence: Co-host of the highly popular New Heights podcast with his brother, Travis.
• Iconic Look: Full, dark beard, long hair, comfortable flannel, Eagles gear, and often seen in flip-flops.

The Kelce-Mania That Gripped Philadelphia: Event Details and Spectacle

The December 2024 look-alike contest was a high-energy, fan-driven spectacle held in the heart of Center City. The event was part of a broader trend in Philadelphia, following similar contests for other local celebrities like Miles Teller and Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, but the Kelce event arguably generated the most buzz and participation.

Rittenhouse Square Becomes 'Kelce Square'

Dozens of doppelgangers gathered at Rittenhouse Square, a stately park that was temporarily transformed into a sea of green and flannel. The contestants went to great lengths to replicate Kelce’s signature style, often sporting the full, unruly beard, long hair, and the distinct Eagles cap.

The competition was less about subtle facial features and more about embodying the *spirit* of Jason Kelce. The judges looked for commitment to the Eagles center's persona, which meant contestants had to embrace the physical and performative aspects of the retired NFL star.

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The 'Kelce Core' Challenges: Beer Chugging and Roaring

To truly test their Kelce authenticity, contestants were put through a series of challenges that mirrored some of the center's most viral moments. The most prominent of these was the beer-chugging contest, a nod to Kelce’s legendary ability to down a brew during tailgates and celebrations.

Many participants also went shirtless, braving the cold to channel the famous moment Kelce celebrated an Eagles playoff victory bare-chested and roaring at the crowd. This was a mandatory element for any serious contender, showing their commitment to the "go big or go home" ethos that defines the Kelce legend. The crowd, naturally, loved the spectacle, turning the contest into a massive, impromptu pep rally.

Meet the Winner: Paul Crossley, The Ultimate Doppelganger

In a tight race that saw many strong contenders, a man from the Fishtown neighborhood of Philadelphia, Paul Crossley, emerged victorious. Crossley was crowned the winner, proving that his dedication to the Kelce look—and presumably, his beer-chugging form—was superior.

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Crossley's win was celebrated across local media, and he instantly became a minor celebrity within the Philadelphia fan community. His victory was a testament to the fact that the Kelce look is not just about a beard; it’s about a certain kind of rugged, approachable charm that resonates with the city's population. The look-alike contest was a tough competition, confirming the high standards of Kelce doppelgangers in the region.

A Separate Kelce Look-Alike Sighting in New Orleans

The phenomenon is not exclusive to Philadelphia. Jason Kelce himself has made appearances at other look-alike gatherings, including a surprise visit to a contest in New Orleans. This demonstrates the national reach of his celebrity, proving that "Kelce-Mania" is a nationwide trend, not just a local one.

The Real Jason Kelce's Hilarious Reaction and the Kylie Kelce Connection

No Kelce event is complete without a reaction from the man himself, and Jason Kelce did not disappoint. His response to the Philadelphia look-alike contest was exactly as humble and hilarious as fans would expect from the future Hall of Fame center.

Kelce’s Priceless ESPN Commentary

Jason Kelce weighed in on the contest during an appearance on ESPN’s *Monday Night Countdown* just days after the event. His take was characteristically self-deprecating and funny: "Look-alike contest? It's not that hard to look like me," he joked, implying that his look is easily attainable by any bearded, burly man. This reaction only further endeared him to the public, as it showed he was in on the joke.

Kylie Kelce’s Pre-Contest Tips

Adding another layer of celebrity involvement, Jason's wife, Kylie Kelce, had previously offered some helpful (and humorous) advice for any potential contestants. She noted the importance of the signature accessories, such as the flip-flops and the specific style of cap, suggesting that attention to detail was key to mastering the full "Kelce Core." Her involvement highlights the couple's good-natured acceptance of their viral fame and the fun spirit of the competition.

Some fans on social media even joked that the winner, Paul Crossley, looked like a perfect blend of both Jason and his brother, Travis Kelce, further tying the event into the broader Kelce family narrative that dominates pop culture.

The Jason Kelce look-alike contest is more than just a fleeting viral moment; it’s a cultural touchstone that perfectly encapsulates the enduring legacy of a Philadelphia icon. The event solidified the bearded, flannel-clad, beer-chugging persona as a symbol of the city's spirit, giving fans a fun, high-energy way to celebrate their beloved Eagles center. Whether the next contest is in 2026 or sooner, it's clear that the Kelce look-alike phenomenon is here to stay, ensuring that the spirit of the legendary number 62 will continue to roar through the streets of Philadelphia for years to come.