Kelce Brothers Aim for $100M Podcast Deal, Shaking Up Digital Media Landscape

Move over, Joe Rogan! There’s a new podcast powerhouse in town, and they’re not just tackling opponents on the field; they’re tackling the airwaves with their signature blend of brotherly banter and NFL insider knowledge. Travis and Jason Kelce, the dynamic duo of professional football, are making waves in the podcast industry with their hit show “New Heights.” But here’s the kicker: they’re not just playing for touchdowns anymore; they’re aiming for a cool $100 million deal. It’s a story that combines America’s favorite sport with the booming podcast industry, and it’s got more layers than a perfectly executed play. So, grab your favorite game-day snacks and settle in as we break down this potential game-changer in the world of sports media.

The Podcast Powerhouse

Travis and Jason Kelce launched their podcast “New Heights” in September 2022, and it has quickly become a fan favorite. Currently ranking as the fourth-most popular podcast in the United States, the show has gained significant traction, especially after Travis Kelce’s highly publicized relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift.

The brothers are now in talks with Wondery, an Amazon-owned podcast network, seeking a deal in the $100 million range for their show. This potential agreement could set a new precedent in the podcast industry, particularly for sports-related content.

The Numbers Game

“New Heights” boasts impressive statistics that justify its high valuation:

2.42 million subscribers on YouTube
2.6 million followers on Instagram
Eight episodes with over three million views each
One episode featuring Kylie Kelce reached eight million views

These numbers reflect the show’s widespread appeal and the Kelce brothers’ ability to attract and retain a large audience.

In fact, “Nearly 100 million Americans age 12 and older listen to podcasts every week.”

This statistic from Edison Research underscores the vast potential audience for podcasts like “New Heights,” explaining why such high-value deals are becoming more common in the industry.

The Business of Podcasting

The podcast industry is experiencing significant growth, with advertising revenue “projected to grow 12% to more than $2 billion this year and hit nearly $2.6 billion by 2026,” according to IAB and PwC. This upward trend makes the Kelce brothers’ $100 million pursuit more understandable from a business perspective.

For context, Travis Kelce recently signed a two-year extension with the Kansas City Chiefs worth $34.25 million, while Jason Kelce, who recently retired from the NFL, secured a deal with ESPN’s “Monday Night Countdown” program for $1.8 million annually with an additional $1 million signing bonus.

The Impact on Sports Media

The potential $100 million deal for “New Heights” could significantly impact the sports media landscape. It demonstrates the growing value of athlete-led content and the merging of sports and entertainment industries. This trend may encourage more athletes to venture into media production, potentially changing how sports stories are told and consumed.

“Back at it again, baby! Feels good to be in K.C. I remember coming here 12 years ago, man. It’s an honor and pleasure and I can’t wait to get after it these next two years. No better than right now. Getting fired up for this year. Just got out on the field with the boys. We’re back at it, baby! Chiefs forever.”

Certainly indicative of his feelings above, Travis Kelce’s enthusiasm for his NFL career, coupled with his podcast success, showcases how modern athletes are diversifying their careers and influencing beyond the playing field.

As the Kelce brothers continue negotiations for their podcast deal, the sports and media industries will be watching closely. The outcome could set new standards for athlete-led content and further blur the lines between sports, entertainment, and media in our increasingly interconnected digital landscape.

Quotes:

Travis and Jason Kelce are looking for a deal in the $100 million range for their “New Heights” podcast – https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10130241-nfl-rumors-travis-jason-kelce-seek-100m-contract-for-new-heights-podcast
“Back at it again, baby! Feels good to be in K.C. I remember coming here 12 years ago, man. It’s an honor and pleasure and I can’t wait to get after it these next two years. No better than right now. Getting fired up for this year. Just got out on the field with the boys. We’re back at it, baby! Chiefs forever.” – Travis Kelce –https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/celebs/a61750046/travis-kelce-jason-kelce-new-heights-deal-100-million/