After 13 seasons in the NFL, Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has announced his retirement from the game. During an emotional press conference at Eagles headquarters on Monday, Kelce reflected on his career and expressed gratitude for the support of his family, particularly his parents and wife.
Kelce, who was picked in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft, had a successful career with the Eagles, including being a part of the team’s Super Bowl LII victory in 2018. However, the decision to retire was not an easy one for Kelce, who described football as the thing that made him feel the most alive and free.
But for Kelce, his family has always been his top priority, and he spoke glowingly about the importance of being a present and loving father.
He credited his own father as his inspiration and role model, and praised his mother for teaching him the valuable lesson of not letting anyone tell him what he can’t do.
Kelce also had words of appreciation for his wife, Kylie, saying that it is no coincidence that he enjoyed the best years of his career while she was by his side. He acknowledged her unwavering support, honesty, and intelligence, and gave her credit for bringing out the best in him.
During the press conference, Kelce also addressed why he chose football and what drew him to the game in the first place. He described the intensity and feeling of freedom he experienced while playing, and how it made him feel more alive than any other sport.
With his retirement, Kelce leaves behind a successful career and a legacy of hard work, dedication, and toughness.
He has been a vital part of the Eagles’ offensive line and a leader in the locker room. And though he may be leaving the NFL, his impact on the team and the city of Philadelphia will not be forgotten.
In his parting message to the media, Kelce simply stated, “I’m retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons with the Eagles. That’s all I’ve got.” But his humble words spoke volumes about his character and the impact he has had on the game and those around him.
As Kelce closes this chapter of his life as a football player, he looks forward to the next chapter as a husband and father.
