Claude Giroux was a great Philadelphia Flyer during his time with the team, wearing the “C” and leading the team to a few playoff rounds and a power play this current version of the Flyers would kill for. But one thing nobody probably expected was what was revealed during Monday’s episode of the New Heights podcast featuring Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and his brother, former Philadelphia Eagles center and legend, Jason Kelce. Namely, Giroux challenged Eagles players to arm wrestles in the Eagles locker room.
A fan question asked: “Now that the NHL season has restarted, which hockey players (past or present) do you think could play in the NFL (and at what position)?” Jason got the ball rolling stating former Flyers forward Eric Lindros could play in the NFL, adding “he’s massive,” and could’ve added some bulk to play the offensive line. When Travis mentioned Lindros could’ve been a tight end and Lindros’ No. 88 would’ve been an ideal tight end jersey number, Jason was quick to agree.
Jason also mentioned another former Flyer in Jaromir Jagr, citing his “frigging mullet would’ve been awesome to watch out there on a football field.” Travis agreed but both weren’t sure what position he would’ve played. From there the brothers brought up Giroux with Travis asking if “he could’ve found his way as a wide receiver or something?” “I mean he’s feisty!” Jason replied. When Travis asked if DB (we assume Defensive Back and not Danny Briere) was the spot for Giroux, Jason said the position was “tough” but maybe safety. “He used to come in and ask to arm wrestle anybody,” Jason added regarding Giroux. “So mentality-wise? Yes. Physically? Uhhh…gonna have to see that.”
There was no word as to who or when Giroux made such challenges against the Eagles players. What is clear is if the Flyers captain would’ve injured himself armwrestling it would only join the list of other Flyers who have endured freak injuries. Eric Desjardins missed the 2004 playoffs for the Flyers when he broke his arm playing catch with his son.
The discussion carried on with Connor McDavid’s speed being great for a quarterback or running back, with both brothers saying McDavid’s vision and elusiveness. Jason then added that speed on a rink and speed on the field can be two totally different things as you’re using two different muscle groups. The brothers were not agreeing on Wayne Gretzky however with Jason not thinking he’d be a NFL player while Travis thinking his greatness would be enough for him to figure it out. “He never struck me as having that much speed,” Jason said. Travis then referenced a dash Gretzky participated in years ago featuring soccer legend Pele (then rather over the hill compared to the young Gretzky) and tennis great Bjorn Borg. As video of the race was shown Jason became more convinced the Great One could’ve played in the NFL.
But back to Giroux for a minute. Giroux was no stranger to the Eagles, occasionally tweeting after wins including the Eagles destroying the Minnesota Vikings in the 2018 playoffs 38-7.
