Philadelphia Eagles’ center Jason Kelce has officially announced his retirement from the National Football League (NFL) on Monday, concluding a remarkable 13-year career with the Eagles. Kelce, a seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time first-team All-Pro, solidified his place as one of the best in his position and became a beloved figure among the team’s fanbase.
The 36-year-old, who won a Super Bowl with the Eagles in February 2018, made the emotional announcement during a retirement news conference attended by his brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, among others. Known for his tenacity, Kelce reflected on his underdog mentality, relishing in proving doubters wrong throughout his career.
“I have been the underdog my entire career, and — I mean this when I say it — I wish I still was. Few things gave me more joy than proving someone wrong,” Kelce expressed during the news conference. He emphasized the fuel that doubters provided to his competitive fire and acknowledged the role of underestimation in driving his success.
Selected by the Eagles in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft, Kelce holds franchise records for consecutive starts (156) and the most regular-season games played by an offensive lineman (193). Beyond his on-field achievements, Kelce became one of Philadelphia’s most beloved athletes, a rarity for a position not typically associated with fan favorites.
During the Super Bowl championship parade following the Eagles’ upset victory over the New England Patriots, Kelce delivered a memorable and impassioned speech, rallying the crowd with the team’s underdog narrative. The speech resonated deeply across the city, further solidifying Kelce’s connection with the fanbase.
Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie expressed the bittersweet nature of Kelce’s retirement, acknowledging the challenge of envisioning the team taking the field without the veteran center. Lurie highlighted Kelce’s deep understanding and genuine appreciation for the fans, citing his Super Bowl parade speech as a poignant example of the emotional connection between Kelce and the Philadelphia community.
