From Small Town to Arrowhead: Jason Claspill’s Journey as a Kansas City Chiefs Flag Runner
For more than a decade, Jason Claspill has been part of one of the most electric moments in professional football. As a flag runner for the Kansas City Chiefs, he charges onto the field in front of a roaring stadium, flag in hand, helping set the tone for game day at Arrowhead Stadium.
But long before the excitement of game day, Jason’s story began in a small-town upbringing and a life shaped by service, discipline and a deep appreciation for community.
Born in Smithville, Missouri, in 1980, Jason spent part of his early life in a rural school environment before moving to Arizona in the early 1990s. After graduating high school in 1998, he immediately pursued a goal he had carried since childhood by joining the United States Marine Corps. His time in the Marines lasted more than four years and helped lay the foundation for much of what would come later.
After his honorable discharge, Jason returned to Missouri, settling in Nevada, where his family has deep ties. His life there became a reflection of his commitment to service and staying active. From playing semi-professional football to competing in full-contact kickboxing and grappling tournaments, he stayed closely connected to athletics and competition. At the same time, he poured energy into his community, serving in leadership roles with local organizations and helping run a charity for underprivileged teens alongside his mother for nearly two decades.
“Service to my community and country are very important to me, and I have my parents to thank for guiding me in that direction,” Jason says.
That same sense of purpose eventually led him to an opportunity he never expected.
Jason first learned about the Chiefs Flag Runner program through his mother, who spotted a post on social media advertising an open position. At the time, he hesitated, unsure if the organization would consider someone who lived about an hour and a half away from Kansas City. Still, the pull of being part of a team he had supported since childhood was too strong to ignore.
“I couldn’t pass up an opportunity for a chance to be part of an organization I had loved since childhood,” he says.
What followed was a rigorous selection process that mirrored the professionalism of the organization itself. Applicants go through multiple stages, including interviews and in-person tryouts, all designed to ensure the right fit for a role that is far more demanding than it may appear from the stands.
Jason’s background gave him a unique edge. His experience in the Marines as a guidon bearer, combined with years of running and training, prepared him physically and mentally for the role. He also credits a high school cross country coach for teaching him the fundamentals of efficient running, lessons that would later prove invaluable in ways he never could have predicted.
“The coaching Mr. Reynolds gave me years ago no doubt led to me running for the Chiefs,” Jason says. “I owe him a lot.”
Since earning his spot in 2011, Jason has become a fixture on the field during Chiefs games, part of a small group that helps bring energy and momentum to every major moment. Over the years, his connection to the role has only grown stronger.
His continued involvement is fueled by more than just a love for football. The environment, the relationships and the sense of belonging all play a role in why he keeps coming back season after season.
“It is the closest thing to the camaraderie of the Marines I have ever experienced,” he says. “I truly cherish the friendship of my teammates.”
Game days begin long before kickoff. Jason typically arrives at the stadium early in the morning, giving himself time to prepare and ensure everything is in order. There are flags to inspect, gear to check and details to coordinate as a team. From pregame parades outside the stadium to final adjustments before taking the field, every step is intentional.
When the moment finally arrives, the experience is unlike anything else.
“It is at that moment when everything stops, and the world feels perfect. Running onto the field with the team hyped behind us is pure bliss.”
Throughout the game, flag runners are constantly in motion, responding to each score with carefully planned routes and coordinated movements. Whether it is a touchdown, field goal or extra point, their role is to amplify the excitement and keep the energy high for fans and players.
Despite being surrounded by tens of thousands of fans, Jason describes a surprising sense of clarity and calm during those high-pressure moments.
“It is a time of pure adrenaline, of purpose and a moment where everything lines up perfectly in the world and I am at peace,” he says.
For Jason, being a flag runner is not just about what happens on the field. It represents something deeper, a connection to a team, a city and a lifelong passion.
“It is a humbling experience and an honor. It has become part of my life. A part that I never will take for granted or forget.”
Over the years, he has collected countless memories, each one adding to the significance of the role. While he says it is impossible to choose a single favorite, some moments stand out more than others.
One of those moments came during what fans now refer to as the “13 seconds” game, a dramatic playoff matchup that showcased the resilience and explosive potential of the Chiefs offense. Jason remembers interacting with fans in the final moments, encouraging them to stay and believe in what could still happen.
“Any time we have number 15 (quarterback Patrick Mahomes) on the field, I will never count us out,” he recalls telling them.
Moments like that have helped shape how he connects with fans, often serving as a bridge between the team and the crowd. He understands the perspective of those in the stands because he has been there himself.
“Before I was a flag runner, I was a fan. And anyone associated with the Chiefs was awesome in my books.”
That connection continues today, whether it is taking photos, signing autographs or simply answering questions about the game. For many fans, flag runners are one of the closest points of contact with the team, and Jason embraces that responsibility.
“It is fun to have people ask for a picture or an autograph,” he says. “Because sometimes we are the closest they can get to the game, and we understand that, too.”
As much as he loves the role, Jason also approaches it with perspective. He knows it is not something that can last forever, and he is at peace with that reality.
“I would enjoy running forever, but I understand that is not possible,” he says.
Instead, he focuses on making the most of every opportunity while remaining open to whatever comes next. When the day arrives that his time as a flag runner comes to an end, he plans to support the organization in any way he can, whether that means helping with tryouts or continuing to be involved behind the scenes.
“I am here as long as the club wants me.”
Through it all, gratitude continues to be at the center of Jason’s story. From his time in the Marines to his years with the Chiefs, he views each chapter as part of something bigger than himself.
“I bleed red, for the Marines and the Chiefs,” he says. “And I am forever grateful to be a small part of both of them.”
For fans watching from the stands or at home, the sight of a flag runner sprinting across the field may last only a few seconds. But for Jason Claspill, those moments represent years of passion and purpose all coming together in one unforgettable run.
