Eagles legendary center Jason Kelce announces retirement
After 13 NFL seasons, Philadelphia Eagles star center Jason Kelce has chosen to step into retirement.
Kelce announced the difficult decision on Monday during a 45-minute speech in his press conference.
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“I’ve been asked many times why did I choose football — what drew me to the game — and I never have an answer that gets it right,” Kelce said via ESPN. “The best way I could explain it is what draws you to your favorite song … your favorite book. It’s what it makes you feel. The seriousness of it. The intensity of it.
“Stepping on the field was the most alive and free I had ever felt. There was a visceral feeling with football, unlike any sport. The hairs on my arms would stand up. I could hit somebody, run around like a crazed lunatic and then get told, ‘Good job.’ I love football.”
The 36-year-old spent his entire career with the Eagles, where he established himself as one of the game’s best offensive linemen. He put forth a Hall-of-Fame-worthy resume with seven Pro Bowl selections and six First-Team All-Pro nods.
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Since the 1970 merger, the 36-year-old remains the only center who has won a Super Bowl and garnered six First-Team All-Pro selections.
Kelce was a mainstay for the Eagles as the cornerstone piece along the offensive line. He commanded one of the league’s best frontline units that helped Philadelphia experience sustained success, capped by winning Super Bowl LII.
His retirement leaves a significant void that the Eagles must fill this offseason.
