Jason Kelce’s Quest to Revive a Nostalgic Children’s Sports Game

A Former NFL Star’s Bold Plan Unveiled on His Podcast

Jason Kelce, celebrated for his stellar career as a center for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL, has transitioned from the football field to a new passion that’s capturing the attention of fans and gamers alike. Known for his Super Bowl LII victory and multiple accolades, Kelce retired in 2023 and quickly found a new stage on the popular podcast "New Heights," co-hosted with his brother Travis Kelce, a standout tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. It was on this platform that Kelce dropped a tantalizing hint about his next big move: acquiring the rights to a 25-year-old children’s sports video game that holds a special place in the hearts of many who grew up in the early 2000s. The game in question is widely believed to be "Backyard Baseball 2001," a beloved title from the "Backyard Sports" series, perfectly aligning with the timeline and Kelce’s nostalgic vision for reviving a classic franchise adored by millennials.

Kelce’s revelation came during an episode of "New Heights" in early 2024, where he shared his dream of bringing the "Backyard Sports" series back to life, with a particular focus on titles like "Backyard Baseball" and "Backyard Football." For those unfamiliar, "Backyard Baseball 2001," released on June 6, 2000, fits the bill as a 25-year-old children’s sports game in 2025, featuring cartoonish kid versions of real athletes, simple controls, and a charm that made it a staple on PCs and consoles of its era. Kelce’s plan isn’t just about one game, though; he’s eyeing the entire "Backyard Sports" lineup, a franchise that kicked off in 1997 with "Backyard Baseball" and grew to include soccer, basketball, and hockey, captivating young players with its lighthearted take on sports simulation. His enthusiasm shines through as he describes the games as "electric" and imagines adapting them for modern platforms like mobile devices, tapping into the nostalgia that still lingers among fans now in their 20s and 30s.

Delving deeper into Kelce’s connection to this venture reveals a mix of personal nostalgia and entrepreneurial ambition. Growing up, he likely encountered these games during their heyday, a period when "Backyard Sports" titles like "Backyard Baseball 2001" were must-haves for kids with access to a family computer or a Game Boy. The series, developed by Humongous Entertainment, thrived on its accessibility and quirky characters, such as the iconic Pablo Sanchez, a pint-sized powerhouse who became a legend in gaming lore. Kelce’s podcast discussion wasn’t just a passing comment; he admitted to quietly researching who holds the rights to these classics, signaling a serious intent to resurrect them. This isn’t surprising given his post-retirement pivot to media, including a role on ESPN’s "Monday Night Countdown," and his knack for engaging audiences, as evidenced by "New Heights" ranking among the top podcasts in 2024.

What makes this story even more intriguing is the unexpected twist of timing. Just as Kelce voiced his ambitions, the "Backyard Sports" series began showing signs of life independent of his efforts. In October 2024, a remastered version of "Backyard Baseball '97" hit the market, with plans announced for other titles like "Backyard Football '99," hinting at a broader revival fueled by fan demand and modern gaming platforms. This development raises questions: could Kelce collaborate with these efforts, or might he face competition in securing the rights? The franchise’s intellectual property has changed hands over the years, complicating any acquisition, but Kelce’s financial resources from his NFL career and his growing media influence could give him an edge in negotiations. His vision of updating these children’s sports video games for today’s audience, perhaps with enhanced graphics or mobile compatibility, taps into a lucrative blend of nostalgia and innovation.

Exploring the specifics of "Backyard Baseball 2001" sheds light on why it’s a prime candidate for Kelce’s revival project. Released in mid-2000, it arrived at the peak of the series’ popularity, building on the original 1997 game with updated rosters and refined gameplay tailored for young players. Unlike more complex sports simulations of the time, it offered a relaxed, arcade-style experience that didn’t demand deep strategic knowledge, making it a perfect fit for kids. Its 25-year milestone in 2025 matches the user’s query, and while Kelce’s podcast comments spanned the series, this title’s timeline and cultural impact make it a standout. Other 2000 releases, like "Backyard Soccer MLS Edition," also hit the 25-year mark, but "Backyard Baseball" consistently emerges as the fan favorite in discussions, aligning with Kelce’s apparent focus.

Kelce’s journey to bring back this classic children’s sports game isn’t without hurdles. Securing rights involves untangling a web of past publishers and current stakeholders, a task that could test even his determination. Yet, the resurgence of "Backyard Sports" in 2024 suggests a market ripe for his vision, potentially easing his path if he can align with existing efforts. His podcast platform gives him a unique megaphone to rally support, and his personal connection to the games adds authenticity to the endeavor. For fans of Jason Kelce, NFL enthusiasts, and gamers longing for a taste of their childhood, this story blends sports legacy with gaming nostalgia in a way that’s hard to resist. Whether he succeeds in resurrecting "Backyard Baseball 2001" or the broader "Backyard Sports" series, Kelce’s pursuit promises to keep this tale evolving, inviting us all to watch how a football star might score a touchdown in the world of retro gaming.