Eagles veteran center Jason Kelce announces he will retire
After the Philadelphia Eagles’ disappointing playoff exit, star center Jason Kelce informed his teammates that he is retiring.
Kelce was visibly emotional in the last few minutes of Monday’s 32-9 wildcard playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
He spent his entire 13-year career with the Eagles. Kelce wasn’t exactly slated for big things after being selected with the 191st overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft. However, he became a cornerstone on the offensive line. His Eagles spell saw him earn six All-Pro selections and seven Pro Bowl nods.
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Kelce was part of six playoff trips, including a pair of Super Bowl appearances and the Eagles’ Super Bowl LII championship team.
The 36-year-old holds recognition as arguably the NFL’s top center as he heads into retirement. His departure leaves a gaping hole on the Eagles’ offensive line that was regarded as one of the best in the league over the last couple of seasons.
“He’s a legend in the city — really in the league,” Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts said via ESPN. “I don’t want to do a disservice to him and the things he’s been able to do and overcome. His journey to where he is now didn’t come easy. It’s been a long, long time coming for him, and every year since I’ve been here, it’s been, ‘Are you going to come back?’
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“But he knows how much I love and appreciate him. He knows how much I’ve learned from him. He’ll forever have a special place in my heart.”
Kelce had considered retirement after the Eagles fell short in Super Bowl 57 against his brother Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs.
He heads into retirement with a likely Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ahead in the coming years.
