Jason Kelce Says He's Retiring After 13 NFL Seasons
Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has reportedly informed his teammates that he is retiring from the NFL, as indicated by multiple reports. Elsa/Getty Images

In a poignant moment on the sideline, Jason Kelce, the revered center for the Philadelphia Eagles, stood in tears as the final seconds dwindled in what is likely his last NFL game, AP reports.

Despite a disheartening season-ending loss, Kelce, with a heavy heart, removed his helmet, exchanging embraces with his long-time offensive line coach, wife, and father in the stands.

Unbeknownst to the public at that moment, Kelce had silently decided that his illustrious football career had reached its conclusion.

The 36-year-old Kelce, a cornerstone of the Eagles' roster, has grappled with retirement considerations over the past few seasons.

Coach Nick Sirianni attempted to entice Kelce's return in 2022 by sending a keg of beer to his home, adding a chapter to the veteran's storied legacy.

After 13 seasons, 156 consecutive starts, and six All-Pro Team selections, Kelce has reportedly informed teammates of his intention to retire, according to three sources speaking on condition of anonymity.

A Philadelphia Eagle Hero Bids Farewell

Kelce, a seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro selection, spent his entire NFL career with the Eagles.

He played a pivotal role in securing a Super Bowl victory for the team in February 2018, according to CNN.

Last season, the Eagles fell short in Super Bowl LVII against the Kansas City Chiefs, where Jason Kelce faced his younger brother, Travis Kelce, in a historic clash of siblings on the Super Bowl stage.

After the Philadelphia Eagles' playoff defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, quarterback Jalen Hurts paid tribute to the impact of center Jason Kelce not just on the team but on the city of Philadelphia as a whole.

Hurts acknowledged Kelce's legendary status, not only in Philadelphia but also in the league.

He emphasized the challenges and obstacles Kelce had overcome throughout his journey in the NFL, highlighting the resilience and determination that marked his career.

The quarterback expressed deep admiration for Kelce, recognizing the difficulties he faced and the continuous questions about his return each season.

Despite the playoff defeat, Hurts conveyed his love and appreciation for Kelce, noting the valuable lessons he had learned from the veteran center.

Hurts acknowledged Kelce's enduring place in his heart, underlining the profound impact Kelce had on him both as a player and as a person.

Coach Sirianni Acknowledges Jason Kelce Retirement

Following the Eagles' season-ending loss to the Buccaneers, Coach Nick Sirianni, unaware of the confirmation, expressed his love and admiration for Kelce.

While Sirianni initially suggested that discussions about Jason Kelce's departure were premature, the NFL's official Twitter account reported the retirement news, PARADE noted.

"He's special and I love him. He's one of the most special guys I've been around," Sirianni stated, emphasizing Kelce's enduring place in the Eagles' legacy.

As Kelce has yet to address the retirement reports personally, fans eagerly await official confirmation from the revered center.

Jason Kelce's retirement, if confirmed, marks the end of an era for Eagles fans, prompting discussions about his potential induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The iconic Eagles center has left an indelible mark on Philadelphia sports, leaving a legacy that fans will forever cherish.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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