He worked the 1997 season as a broadcaster for NBC. He also had his first child in 1997. His son, Hunter James Kelly, was born with Krabbe's Disease, a rare disorder that affects the brain and usually leads to an early death. Kelly redirected his focus and formed an organization to raise money for research for the disease. He and his wife Kelly also have a daughter, Erin.
Kelly briefly considered returning to the NFL in 1998 with the Baltimore Ravens, a decision influenced by a desire to raise money for Hunter's Hope, his research foundation. He remained retired, however, and close to his family. Kelly was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.
Although Kelly never became a Super Bowl champion his performance on and off the field earned him the respect of his fans and colleagues. A hard-nosed player who had to endure his share of criticism and failure, Kelly never succumbed to the pressures of the NFL. He led a floundering franchise to the promise land and kept them there for many years.
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