Jason Kelce, the long-time Philadelphia Eagles centre, broke down in tears during his retirement press conference on Monday, confirming his decision to step away from the NFL after 13 seasons with the franchise. The 36-year-old had been visibly emotional following the Eagles' Wild Card playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in January, sparking speculation that his career was over.
Kelce, a sixth-round draft pick in 2011, spent his entire career with the Eagles, becoming a fan favourite in Philadelphia. He helped the team achieve a 10-1 start in the 2023 regular season, though they finished 11-6 before their early playoff exit. Kelce was a key member of the Eagles' Super Bowl LII-winning team, which defeated the New England Patriots 41-33.
During his emotional address, Kelce said: 'I am very proud knowing where I once was and the legacy I have left behind... Some people struggle to play in this city – I considered it a blessing to play in the most passionate sports town in America. Thank you Philadelphia, for letting me represent this city.'
Kelce's individual accolades include seven Pro Bowl selections and six first-team All-Pro honours. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie praised him, saying: 'He gave everything he had to all of us for 13 years. And he did it in a way that was truly authentic. Jason was an incredible football player: A future Hall of Famer who would have been successful anywhere. But has there ever been a more perfect marriage between a player, a city and a team?'
Kelce had contemplated retirement before the 2022 and 2023 seasons, signing one-year contracts each time. In Super Bowl LVII, he faced his brother Travis Kelce's Kansas City Chiefs, but the Eagles lost 38-35. Reflecting on his brother, Kelce said: 'There is no chance I'd be here without the bond Travis and I share.'
