After 13 seasons, center Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles has formally announced his retirement from the National Football League.
On Monday, Kelce, along with his brother, Travis Kelce, a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, attended a tearful 45-minute press conference at the NovaCare Complex in South Philadelphia.
The 36-year-old instantly started crying as he removed his Eagles T-shirt.
Kelce remarked, “Let’s see how far this can go.”
Reflecting on his time with the Eagles and thanking everyone who helped him from his early days in Philadelphia to his current success, Kelce gave a tearful press conference.
In addition to winning a Super Bowl and releasing two Christmas CDs, Kelce spent 13 seasons with the Eagles.
“I’ve had a desire to play in one location for the duration of my career. And I couldn’t have written a more perfect finale, even if I tried,” he remarked. Although I’m not sure what the future contains, I’m excited for the chances and challenges that lie ahead. And I’m aware that we will always have a bond as Philadelphia Eagles and that I’m leaving this place having learned something.”
University of Cincinnati product Kelce was selected by Philadelphia in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Andy Reid, Chip Kelly, Doug Pederson, and Nick Sirianni were the four head coaches he played for.
Throughout his career, Kelce earned six All-Pro selections, including one in 2023, and seven Pro Bowl nominations.
“I must own that I have overworked myself. Much more than that, Kelce remarked. But it required a lot of perseverance and hard effort to get here. I really do mean it when I say that my entire career has been one of underdogdom. More than anything, proving people wrong has brought me greater joy. When it comes to getting Jason to do something, my mother would always say, “Just tell him he can’t.” And not anything made me happier than to refute someone.”
In 2029, Kelce will be qualified to enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
In a detailed statement, Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said, “Everyone in this organization, the city of Philadelphia, and our fans knows how much Jason Kelce means.” It’s challenging to describe.”
In 2018, he made a spectacular speech during the victory parade and was instrumental in the Eagles’ triumph in Super Bowl LII.
Kelce discussed playing in Philadelphia and his special relationship with the city at his press conference.
“It’s absolutely ironic that I complete my career in the city of brotherly love,” remarked Kelce. “I knew this relationship well.”
Kelce went on to talk about how an athlete needs to represent excellence in Philadelphia.
“In this city, there are many who are struggling. They’re not able to handle our fans, the media, or the jeers,” stated Kelce. It is truly a gift to be able to play in America’s most fervent sports city. Our company has been driven by the city’s intense need for success, which motivates us to seize chances, find solutions to issues, and put in endless effort to succeed.”
About playing in Philadelphia, Kelce spoke more:
“You may occasionally despise a player, particularly one who is new to the area, but once you’ve crossed enough lines, you start to value them. I know what it means to serve as this city’s representative. The city, to the extent that genes have changed over many years on problems. The Eagles are the primary conversation topic practically all the time.”
Kelce, though, advised being ready for the criticism that follows subpar work in light of this focus.
“They’ll let you know when you’re not performing well. Each and every time. If you put in the work, have passion, drive, and are willing to fight for what you want, people will also love you. If you love this city as much as you love your brothers, they’ll love you back,” Kelce remarked.
Finally, Kelce said the following to show that you care because they care:
“Because they care, demonstrate your own concern, and you’ll find love.” They object to athletes and the media saying things that are simply too simple. Adore them. Accept them as they are. And play your balls outside. I promise that if you put your heart on your sleeve, those stories will be altered.
