Kelly (Green, not Chip)

In his “state of the Eagles” speech, Jeff Laurie entered with a proud announcement that the Eagles would use, as an alternate uniform starting in 2023, the old “Kelly Green.” I actually enjoy the Midnight Green instituted by the Birds after Laurie’s arrival in 1994 (The switch from Kelly to Midnight occurred in 1996). This is a clear revenue generator for the Birds, doubling down on all kinds of merchandise, but this author has no objection to occasionally “breaking out the Kelly” as an alternative.

Kelly dates back to the Eagles using it in the 1930’s, so the tradition has some lengthy history. The nostalgia credits championship teams from 1948, 1949 and 1960 (remember that dynasty?) and, of course the popular Eagle squads under both Dick Vermeil and Buddy Ryan. Eagle greats like Chuck Bednarik and Reggie White are immortalized in the memory of Kelly Green.

The Eagles last wore Kelly green during the 2010 season. Then the league implemented a “one helmet color” rule (As a safety precaution? Really?). The Birds would not wear the Kelly Green uniforms with their midnight Green helmets (thankfully). But now full Kelly green (helmets and all) is the alternate theme for 2023.

Per canva.com, Kelly Green is named after the common Irish family name, Kelly, and is reminiscent of the lush green Irish landscape. It is also commonly associated with the colors of St. Patrick's Day. As a true middle green, Kelly green is a color of renewal, nature, and energy, associated with growth and the environment.

Eagles Lesson: Here’s hoping Kelly Green equals Victory!

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