Eagles’ star player Jason Kelce has officially announced his retirement after 13 seasons. Kelce, one of the key leaders of Philadelphia, has made six postseason appearances and two Super Bowl trips over the past seven seasons.
Kelce made an emotional speech last week, March 4th, leaving fans and fellow teammates in tears. Kelce broke down multiple times while reflecting on his life and career, and made the farewell speech that Philadelphia will never forget. He cradled Philadelphia as his baby and did everything in his power to make the city feel loved. His hardcore fanbase has allowed Kelce to flourish through his career. Kelce expresses his love for the city by saying, “Some people struggle to play in this city. They can’t handle the boos, the media, or our fans. I consider it a blessing to play in the most passionate sports towns in America…If you’re not performing, they will let you know. But as long as you show effort, they will love you.”
He thanked his family, friends, fans, teammates, and coaches for helping him through his career. Kelce teammates immediately went on social media to thank Jason for all his hard work while on the team, and that they would miss him.
Kelce was selected during the sixth round of the 2011 draft. A walk-on running back at Cincinnati who was converted to guard then to center. Kelce always acknowledges himself as the “Underdog.” He was undersized and often overlooked as a player. Kelce says, “I have been the underdog my entire career.” He also says, “And I mean this when I say it, I still wish I was.”
Jason Kelce’s dream was to always play for the Eagles, but a bigger dream of his was to play for only one team his entire career. Jason accomplished this. Kelce has played his entire career with the Eagles, and has made his family die hard Eagle fans. Kelce’s wife, Kylie Kelce, refuses to support or wear any other NFL clothes or colors.
Kelce has decided to retire due to lingering injuries and wishing to spend more time with his family. Jason Kelce will be missed on the field, but nobody will ever forget the true underdog.
