As the sun rose over Stephen Girard Elementary School, the Philadelphia Eagles continued their storied tradition of giving back to the community. The 27th annual Playground Build event brought together players, coaches, and volunteers, all united by a common purpose: transforming a schoolyard into a vibrant oasis for local children. For 27 years, the annual Playground Build has been more than just a team event—it’s a beacon of hope, a canvas for creativity, and a testament to the power of sports beyond the gridiron.

In 2023, The Eagles – from the front office staff to coaches and players painted the Henry W. Lawton School in Northeast Philadelphia, infusing its walls with vibrant murals. Over the past decade, the Eagles’ Playground Builds have touched the lives of 10,000+ children. Each mural represents countless hours of teamwork, creativity, and community spirit. In 2022, the Eagles raised $5 million through donations, sponsorships, and player contributions.

In a heartwarming display of camaraderie and playful banter, Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown pulled off an unexpected prank on Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts during the Playground Build event. In a TikTok video shared by the Eagles, Brown confidently approached Jalen Hurts, saying, “Watch this.” With a mischievous grin, he playfully painted yellow streaks on Hurts’ shirt. The unsuspecting quarterback took it in stride, and the two shared a laugh as they continued their mural-painting duties.

Meanwhile, The Eagles shared a series of heartwarming Instagram stories, capturing the essence of the Playground Build event. Team members donned white Eagles tees as they walked through the school, exchanging fist bumps with excited children. The Eagles mascot, Swoop, even appeared, providing fresh brushes to the team members as they painted vibrant murals onto the building. The final mural beautifully reflected the team’s colors and imagery.

This year’s Playground Build holds special significance, as it coincided with the announcement that Philadelphia Hurts and veteran center Jason Kelce raised an impressive amount for the Eagles Autism Challenge.

Jalen Hurts joins retired Jason Kelce for a triumph of community and compassion!

In the heart of Philadelphia, where the echoes of passionate fans reverberate through Lincoln Financial Field, an extraordinary event unfolded—the 7th annual Eagles Autism Challenge. This year, the challenge reached new heights, raising over $8 million for autism research and care programs. But it wasn’t just about the staggering numbers; it was about the collective spirit of giving, led by the indomitable Kelce.

The numbers tell a compelling story. 5,620 participants—bikers, runners, and walkers—joined forces with the Eagles’ organizations. They pedaled through streets, ran with purpose, and walked side by side, all fueled by a shared mission. Their efforts translate into more than $8.1 million, a sum that will fuel groundbreaking research worldwide.

Owner Jeffrey Lurie summed it up succinctly: “I am overwhelmed with gratitude.” The Eagles Autism Challenge shattered records, surpassing last year’s fundraising total. But it wasn’t just about the money; it was about the passion. Participants, sponsors, and donors rallied behind the cause, propelling the event to new heights. The fast-paced growth speaks volumes about the collective determination to improve the lives of those living with autism.

As the fundraising window remains open through May 31, the impact will continue to grow. The $30 million raised since 2018 is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward advancements in autism research and care. Kelce, with his unwavering dedication, exemplifies the spirit of giving back.

As the Eagles continue to make a positive impact both on and off the field, events like the Playground Build serve as a testament to their commitment to the community. And who knows? Maybe next year, we’ll see even more colorful pranks and heartwarming moments at the 28th annual Playground Build