Jason Kelce Expands Post-NFL Career by Investing in Popular New Jersey Hot Sauce Brand
Jason Kelce, the celebrated former Philadelphia Eagles center and current media personality, is adding a flavorful twist to his post-NFL ventures. Known for his appearances on ESPN’s Monday Night Football and co-hosting the sports podcast “New Heights,” Kelce is now stepping into the culinary world with an investment in Hank Sauce, a growing hot sauce company based in New Jersey.
Hank Sauce, which started as a small, local operation in Sea Isle City, has gradually gained recognition for its flavorful and approachable sauces. The brand now operates from a 10,000-square-foot facility in Millville, Cumberland County, and is sold in approximately 5,000 stores nationwide. With Kelce joining as an investor, Hank Sauce is aiming to elevate its presence and establish itself as a household name across the country.
Kelce made the announcement through his investment firm, Winnie Capital, which has a diverse portfolio including media, athletics, apparel, consumer packaged goods, technology, agriculture, and real estate. For Kelce, this is more than just a business move—it represents a personal connection. Having spent many summers in South Jersey and developed ties to the local community, Kelce expressed his enthusiasm for Hank Sauce and its founders.
“As someone familiar with the South Jersey area, I’ve seen the passion and creativity that goes into every bottle of Hank Sauce,” Kelce said in a statement. “When the opportunity came to join and help share this brand with a wider audience, I couldn’t wait to be part of it.”
Kelce’s involvement will go beyond financial support. He plans to collaborate on brand strategy, content creation, and marketing initiatives to help grow Hank Sauce’s customer base. His celebrity influence and media experience are expected to amplify the brand’s reach, potentially transforming the regional favorite into a nationally recognized culinary brand.
The origins of Hank Sauce trace back to 2011 when three college roommates, Brian “Hank” Ruxton, Matt Pittaluga, and Josh Jaspan, began experimenting with hot sauce recipes in their garage. Their early batches were crafted for friends and family, but the positive reception inspired them to launch the brand formally. They later ran a flagship restaurant where bottles were handcrafted for six years before production expanded to their current Millville facility.
The company’s focus is on creating sauces that enhance flavors without overwhelming dishes. Pittaluga shared that testing the sauces during college revealed a genuine demand for mild, versatile hot sauces, motivating the founders to dedicate themselves fully to the brand.
Kelce’s athletic achievements, including seven Pro Bowl selections, six first-team All-Pro honors, and a Super Bowl LII championship, have made him a recognizable figure in the sports world. His transition into entrepreneurship demonstrates how athletes are increasingly leveraging their platforms to explore diverse business opportunities.
By joining Hank Sauce, Kelce is not only investing in a growing food brand but also supporting a local New Jersey enterprise with strong community roots. His partnership is expected to accelerate Hank Sauce’s expansion while keeping the brand’s original values intact—craftsmanship, flavor, and connection to the local community.
With the backing of Jason Kelce, Hank Sauce is poised for a significant national footprint, offering consumers a flavorful addition to their kitchens while highlighting the potential of local brands achieving national recognition.
Sources:
Official statements from Jason Kelce and Winnie Capital
Hank Sauce company announcements and press releases
Philadelphia Eagles historical player records
