"Philadelphia Eagles Center Jason Kelce Announces Emotional Retirement After 13 Seasons"
Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has officially retired from the NFL after playing for 13 seasons. The 36-year-old announced his retirement during an emotional press conference at the NovaCare Complex in South Philadelphia. His family, including his brother Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs, attended the event. Wearing a sleeveless Eagles T-shirt, Jason Kelce became visibly emotional and even joked about the tears.
During the
heartfelt 45-minute conference, Kelce shared memories of his successful career
with the Eagles and expressed gratitude to those who supported him throughout
his journey, both in Philadelphia and since childhood. Drafted in 2011, he
played under four head coaches, namely Andy Reid, Chip Kelly, Doug Pederson,
and Nick Sirianni.
Kelce, a
seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro, acknowledged his reputation,
humorously claiming to be "vastly overrated." He emphasized his
underdog mentality and how doubters fueled his determination. Despite retiring,
Kelce will be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2029.
Eagles
owner Jeffrey Lurie praised Kelce's contribution to the team and the city,
highlighting the unique connection between player, city, and team. Offensive
line coach Jeff Stoutland thanked Kelce for their time together in a social
media post.
Kelce's
impact goes beyond the field; he became a legend in Philadelphia, especially
for his passionate speech during the Eagles' Super Bowl parade in 2018. He
credited the memorable speech to the city, emphasizing its significance and the
joy it brought to the community.
Kelce
expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout his career, from
family and coaches to the passionate Philadelphia fans. He acknowledged the
challenges of playing in such a sports-driven city but also highlighted the
unique love and support the fans offer to dedicated athletes.
In
conclusion, Jason Kelce retired as a beloved figure in Philadelphia, leaving a
lasting legacy on and off the field.
Related Queries:
1. What are some key highlights of Jason Kelce's 13-season
career with the Philadelphia Eagles?
2. How many Pro Bowls and All-Pro selections did Jason Kelce
receive during his NFL career?