West Virginians Praised as "Realest People" on Popular Podcast

Mountaineer pride and authenticity highlighted by NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce, Randy Moss

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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In a conversation on the New Heights podcast, NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce and Randy Moss praised the people of West Virginia, describing them as grounded, humble, and authentic. The Kelce brothers and Moss, who all have ties to the Mountain State, highlighted the distinct qualities of West Virginians that set them apart, including a strong sense of community, unwavering pride in their roots, and a refusal to be anything other than their true selves.

Why it matters

The podcast segment shines a light on the enduring cultural identity of West Virginia and its residents, who are often overlooked or mischaracterized. By recognizing the state's unique values and the character of its people, the NFL stars validate the experiences of West Virginians and challenge stereotypes, offering a more nuanced understanding of the Mountain State.

The details

During the podcast, Jason Kelce remarked on the "authenticity" and "realness" he has observed in West Virginians, from fellow athletes like Nick Saban to everyday people. Randy Moss, who is from West Virginia, attributed this quality to the state's "humble beginnings" and the way it shapes residents to be grounded, proud, and unwilling to compromise their true selves. Moss even brought his Hall of Fame jacket back to his hometown to inspire local youth, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to his community.

  • The podcast episode featuring the discussion about West Virginia aired on March 9, 2026.

The players

Jason Kelce

An NFL player who has expressed a deep appreciation for the people of West Virginia.

Travis Kelce

An NFL player and Jason Kelce's brother, who also shared positive sentiments about West Virginians.

Randy Moss

A former NFL wide receiver who is from West Virginia and has remained connected to his home state.

Nick Saban

A college football coach who was cited as an example of the authenticity and grounded nature of West Virginians.

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What they’re saying

“What is it about guys from West Virginia? I golfed with this dude (Jason Williams) and had the most fun outing of my life at the Jerome Bettis golf outing this past year. It feels like you're the same way. Nick Saban, even hearing him talk. There's an authenticity and a realness...I don't even know how to describe it. It feels like I love everybody that I meet from West Virginia, and I don't exactly know why.”

— Jason Kelce, NFL Player (New Heights Podcast)

“I just think that if you come from humble beginnings, I think that's what keeps a person grounded. I think that everyone that I've seen from West Virginia, all of the celebrities, just being humbled and keeping grounded.”

— Randy Moss, Former NFL Wide Receiver (New Heights Podcast)

The takeaway

The praise for West Virginians from prominent NFL figures highlights the state's enduring cultural identity, rooted in humility, authenticity, and an unwavering sense of community. This recognition challenges stereotypes and offers a more nuanced understanding of the Mountain State, showcasing the unique qualities that make West Virginians stand out in a world increasingly defined by facades and filtered images.