After a storied 13-season career with the Philadelphia Eagles, All-Pro center Jason Kelce is hanging up his cleats. The emotional announcement came in the aftermath of the Eagles' season-ending loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the wild card playoffs, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter. The 36-year-old, widely regarded as a future Hall-of-Famer, shared his decision to retire with teammates in the locker room, marking the end of an illustrious chapter in NFL history.
Kelce's sentiment was palpable during the game's final moments at Raymond James Stadium, where ESPN cameras captured him visibly upset on the sidelines. "That looks like a man filled with emotion right now," commented Troy Aikman during the broadcast. The center, who was set to become a free agent in March, had hinted at retirement in recent times, including in a Prime Video documentary released in September 2023 that followed his journey on and off the field.
The emotional weight of the decision was evident as Kelce greeted his wife, Kylie McDevitt Kelce, and father, Ed Kelce, after the game. His somber walk to the locker room further underscored the gravity of the moment. Lane Johnson, veteran Eagles right tackle, shared with reporters that Kelce had indicated this might be his final season. "I love him. He's one of the best to ever play the game," said Johnson.
Kelce's journey with the Eagles has been nothing short of remarkable. A sixth-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, he rose to become a cornerstone of the Eagles' offensive line, earning six All-Pro selections and seven Pro Bowl nods. He was instrumental in the Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory in 2018 and played a pivotal role in their recent Super Bowl appearance against the Kansas City Chiefs in February.
Beyond his on-field prowess, Kelce has become a beloved figure in Philadelphia, known for his passionate speech dressed as a Mummer during the Super Bowl parade and his popular podcast with brother Travis Kelce. Eagles coach Nick Sirianni expressed his admiration post-game, saying, "He's special and I love him. He's one of the most special guys I've been around."
Kelce's impact extends beyond his athletic achievements. His leadership and resilience have been a source of inspiration for teammates and fans alike. Philadelphia quarterback Jalen Hurts spoke highly of Kelce, stating, "He's a legend in the city - really in the league. I don't want to do a disservice to him and the things he's been able to do and overcome."
Kelce's journey from a sixth-round draft pick to an NFL legend is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He began his career under coach Andy Reid and played through the Chip Kelly and Doug Pederson eras, culminating under Sirianni. His consistency and excellence have not only cemented his legacy with the Eagles but also in the NFL at large.
As Jason Kelce prepares to step away from the gridiron, his legacy will continue to resonate with the Eagles organization and its fanbase. His departure marks the end of an era for the Eagles, but his influence on the team and the league will undoubtedly endure. Kelce's retirement is not just the conclusion of a remarkable career but also a celebration of a player who epitomized talent, tenacity, and heart in the NFL.
