His story is “A Journey of Perseverance”.
Jim Kelly is a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback best known for leading the Buffalo Bills to four consecutive Super Bowls and pioneering the fast paced “No Huddle Offense” that transformed modern NFL strategy. Drafted in the first round by the Bills in 1983, he initially signed with the USFL’s Houston Gamblers, where he threw for nearly 10,000 yards in two seasons. When the league folded, Jim joined the Bills in 1986 and built one of the most successful offenses in NFL history, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and cementing his place as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.
Jim’s story extends far beyond football. Raised in East Brady, Pennsylvania, he battled injuries early in his career, persevered through high stakes pressure, and later confronted profound personal adversity. After retiring, Jim lost his young son Hunter to Krabbe Leukodystrophy and endured three separate battles with cancer. Through every challenge, he has remained defined by toughness, heart, and gratitude. Today he inspires audiences with the “four F’s” that shaped his life Faith, Friends, Family, and Fans and the deeper meaning of being “Kelly Tough.” Blending authenticity, humility, and unmatched grit, Jim brings a rare perspective on resilience, leadership, and purpose.
Jim Kelly is a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback who spent his entire NFL career as a Buffalo Bill. His hallmark as a player was his toughness.
Jim is considered one of the elite quarterbacks in the history of the National Football League. He led the Buffalo Bills to four consecutive Super Bowls in 1991 ‘92, ‘93 and 1994. In 2002, Jim Kelly was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Nicknamed “Machine-Gun Kelly”, Jim Kelly was perhaps best known for running the Bills’ “No-Huddle Offense”, which was fast-paced and denied opposing defenses the opportunity to make timely substitutions, establishing the Buffalo Bills as one of the NFL’s most successful and dangerous offenses.
The Buffalo Bills selected quarterback Jim Kelly in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft. However, the Miami Hurricane star opted to sign with the Houston Gamblers of the United States Football League. In two seasons with the Gamblers, Jim Kelly threw for 9,842 yards and 83 touchdowns.
The USFL folded following the 1985 season, and Jim Kelly, just prior to the start of the 1986 NFL season, signed with the Bills.
From growing up in East Brady, a small town in Pennsylvania, to facing a career threatening injury in his college days, to leading the Buffalo Bills team to an unprecedented four straight AFC championships, Jim’s toughness has been tested time and time again.
After his retirement, not only did he lose his one and only son Hunter at the age of 8, to a disease called Krabbe Leukodystrophy, Jim has also survived not one, but three battles with cancer. Jim speaks about the power of the four F’s – Faith, Friends, Family and Fans and what is really means to be “Kelly Tough.”
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
A concise, professionally crafted keynote introduction designed to frame the speaker’s expertise, build anticipation, and ignite audience energy within the first moments of the event.
No reviews available for this post.
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
Julie Foudy, former captain of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team and two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, is not only a sports legend but also a highly sought-after keynote speaker. With an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades, she has inspired millions through her achievements on the field and her leadership off it. As […]
Victoria Arlen’s life story is one of remarkable resilience and triumph over adversity. At the tender age of eleven, her world was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with two rare conditions, Transverse Myelitis and Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis. This devastating diagnosis robbed Victoria of her ability to speak, eat, walk, and move, plunging her […]
Professional tennis player and sports speaker Anna Kournikova, known for her beauty and celebrity status, has made her one of the most well known tennis player in the industry. In 2000, Anna was ranked No. 8 in the world and has been named No. 1 in the world in doubles at various points in her […]
Josh Sundquist is a Paralympian, bestselling author, and Emmy-winning Apple TV+ storyteller whose videos have generated over one billion video views. He inspires audiences to live by his mantra 1MT1MT (One More Thing, One More Time). Your attendees will leave energized and equipped to: Foster forward-thinking amid market volatility Rebound from disappointment Do 1MT1MT to […]
From Why Coach of the San Francisco 49ers to leadership and sales speaker, bestselling author, and Chief Purpose Advisor, discover Paul Epstein path to become the most trusted voice on leading battle-tested teams and building purposeful culture through The Power of Playing Offense. Paul Epstein has been in the sports industry since his career began, […]
Sarah Wells is an Olympic 400m hurdler, Pan Am Games silver medalist, and powerhouse keynote speaker whose high-voltage energy and authentic storytelling have electrified audiences across the globe. From the track to the stage and even the set of The Amazing Race, Sarah’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, bold ambition, and redefining what excellence […]
Alex Smith was a three-time Pro Bowl quarterback who saved his most inspirational act for last. After a devastating leg injury that required 17 surgeries, Smith found a way back to the field with the Washington Football Team in 2020. He helped them win the NFC East Division title and was named NFL Comeback Player of […]
Alex Molden, a dynamic and seasoned speaker, brings a unique blend of entertainment, inspiration, and practical solutions to the corporate world. With a remarkable background spanning from his days as a first-round draft pick in the NFL to his diverse experiences in various industries, Molden has honed his expertise in team collaboration, communication, and transparency. […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2026. Designed using Voxel
