Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce announces retirement from professional football

Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce announced his retirement from the NFL at an emotional news conference on Monday. At 36 years old, Kelce is considered a potential future Pro Football Hall of Famer, having been selected to the Pro Bowl seven times and earning All-Pro honors six times. Throughout his impressive 13-season NFL career, Kelce remained loyal to the Eagles, contributing to the team's Super Bowl victory in 2018.

During a heartfelt news conference that lasted about 40 minutes, Kelce became emotional multiple times while sharing the importance of football in his life, both as a child and a professional player.

Taylor Swift at the Chiefs-Dolphins playoff game in Kansas City in January.

Taylor Swift at the Chiefs-Dolphins playoff game in Kansas City in January.

Ed Zurga/AP

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"I've been asked a lot why I chose football, what made me love the game, but I never have a perfect answer," he mentioned.

"I can best describe it as what attracts you to your favorite song or book. It's the emotions it evokes - the passion, the intensity. Playing on the field made me feel the most alive and liberated I've ever been."

After the Eagles' 32-9 playoff defeat to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in January, there were reports that Kelce had informed his teammates about retiring. Despite this, he chose not to confirm his retirement, leaving uncertainty about the possibility of him coming back for one last season with the Eagles.

On Monday, Kelce tearfully shared at a news conference that he is retiring from playing football. He was surrounded by his family and Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni.

Reflecting on his journey, Kelce expressed, “It was a lot of hard work and determination to reach this point. Throughout my career, I have always been the underdog. And honestly, I wish I still was. There is nothing that brought me more joy than proving people wrong."

During the announcement, Kelce paid tribute to, among others, his former coaches and teammates, the fans in Philadelphia, and his family, notably his brother.

Jason Kelce spent his entire 13-season NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles, including the team's 2018 Super Bowl win.

Jason Kelce spent his entire 13-season NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles, including the team's 2018 Super Bowl win.

Mitchell Leff/Getty Images

In 2023, Kelce's Eagles fell short in Super Bowl LVII against the Kansas City Chiefs, where his younger brother Travis played for the opposing team - marking the first time two brothers faced off in a Super Bowl.

Kelce expressed, "I owe so much to the bond I have with Travis. It has made me a better player, teaching me important values like teamwork, loyalty, patience, and empathy."

I feel like it's fate that my career is flourishing in the City of Brotherly Love. I have a strong connection to this place.

Eagles chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie expressed on Monday how much Jason Kelce has impacted the organization, the city, and the fans. It's hard to fully capture the significance of his contributions.

Lurie added that he gave his all to everyone for 13 years in a truly authentic manner.

Reflecting on his career, Lurie mentioned that Jason was not only an exceptional football player but also a future Hall of Famer who could have excelled anywhere. He also pondered if there has ever been a more ideal match between a player, a city, and a team.

CNN’s Thomas Schlachter contributed to this report.

Editor's P/S:

Jason Kelce's retirement announcement was a poignant moment that showcased his humility and unwavering dedication to the sport. His emotional words about the transformative power of football and his gratitude towards his teammates, coaches, and family resonated deeply. As a potential Hall of Famer, Kelce leaves an indelible mark on the NFL, not only through his exceptional skills but also through his infectious spirit and commitment to excellence. His departure will undoubtedly create a void in the Eagles organization, but his legacy will continue to inspire countless future players.

Kelce's journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. Despite facing adversity throughout his career, he remained steadfast in his determination to prove his worth. His unwavering belief in himself and his team's potential is a powerful reminder that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. Kelce's retirement marks the end of an era for the Eagles, but his spirit will undoubtedly continue to guide the team and the city of Philadelphia for years to come.