Eagles Players Launch Plushies for Holiday Charity Initiative

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The holiday shopping season is officially underway, and Eagles fans have a special reason to celebrate. Former Eagle Jason Kelce, along with current players Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, known as The Philly Specials, have kicked off their annual charitable initiative, Operation Snowball.

Beginning November 7 at 9 a.m. ET, The Philly Specials have partnered with Just Play Toys to offer pre-orders for The Holiday Huddle, a collectible set of plush toys representing the players. Each plush is outfitted in a festive midnight green sweater featuring their names and numbers and measures between 8.5 and 9.25 inches. The set, priced at $49.99, can be ordered online, with shipments expected the week of Thanksgiving.

“Making music with my friends and donating to organizations committed to making the lives of Philadelphia families and students brighter during the holidays has been a highlight of the past three years,” Mailata said in a news release. “We are looking forward to bringing the joy back again this year with proceeds from the new plushies, and a few other surprises.”

In addition to the plushies, fans can also purchase vinyl and CD copies of their holiday albums, including A Philly Special Christmas Party. Connor Barwin, executive producer of Vera Y Records and Operation Snowball, emphasized the impact their previous initiatives have had. “Last year our efforts culminated with a citywide initiative that provided a gift for every student in the School District of Philadelphia,” Barwin said.

The Philly Specials have become synonymous with holiday cheer, raising over $4 million with their previous albums. This year’s plush set represents a new opportunity to continue their philanthropic work, ensuring that the joy of the season is felt throughout the community.