Philadelphia Eagles star Jason Kelce held an emotional press conference on Monday to address his NFL future.
Jason Kelce has been with the Eagles since the franchise used a sixth-round pick at the 2011 NFL Draft on the Cincinnati Bearcat product.
In 13 seasons with Philadelphia, Kelce started 193 games at center, serving as the focal point of the best offensive line of the past decade.
He is a seven-time All-Pro and helped the Eagles win their first-ever Super Bowl in the 2017 NFL season. Players, coaches, and fans consider Kelce one of the best centers in league history.
After weeks of speculation and flirting with retirement last off-season, Kelce now has a final decision for fans.
Jason Kelce’s tearful retirement press conference
With his entire family in attendance, including brother Travis Kelce, the long-time veteran told reporters he is officially retiring from the NFL.
An emotional Jason Kelce took the podium and broke into tears, only a few words into his speech.
Nobody cares more about this game than @JasonKelce. ❤️😢 pic.twitter.com/FEnllKeDtR
— NFL (@NFL) March 4, 2024
“Stepping on the field was the most alive and free I ever felt. The hairs on my arms would stand up,” Kelce remarked.
“I love football. Whether it’s in the backyard with my brother or on the playground at school, it is hard, much harder than any sport I’ve ever played. “
Kelce went on to thank as many coaches and teammates as possible, giving credit to all those who helped him along the way.
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Former players and fans react to Kelce’s retirement
NFL fans quickly took to social media to congratulate Kelce after a successful, Hall of Fame-worthy career.
Field Yates, a well-known ESPN personality, went as far as saying it was the most outstanding retirement speech in recent memory — and perhaps ever.
Jason Kelce just delivered the greatest retirement speech I've ever seen. Authentic, reflective, appreciative of so many people and the places at every step of his journey. Build the statue now. What an all-time great.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 4, 2024
One diehard Philadelphia fan (mccrystal_alex) thanked Kelce following his retirement, calling the long-time Eagle an icon.
Thank you for everything Jason Kelce Your legacy as a Philadelphia Icon will be the stuff of legend for generations to come.You made Eagles fans everywhere live their dream of being a champion. You’re a champion Jason.Thank you for everything. pic.twitter.com/7Bs5glL9CD pic.twitter.com/cbBekAiUO9
— Philly Sports Sufferer (@mccrystal_alex) March 4, 2024
Even former players who played against Kelce posted well wishes on X, including future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt.
Just go ahead and get the Gold Jacket fitted right now.Congrats on one hell of a career @JasonKelce A pleasure and an honor to share the field with you. 🙏🏼
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) March 4, 2024
Another former player and current football analyst, Robert Griffin III, spoke about his takeaway from the press conference, praising Kelce’s passion for the NFL.
One thing is clear from this press conference. Jason Kelce LOVES football and we were blessed to watch him play it. pic.twitter.com/wd72igdkhf
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) March 4, 2024
As a parting gift, Kelce promised that whatever comes next, he will tackle it with the same ferocity as football.
“I don’t know what’s next, but I look forward to the new challenges,” Kelce told reporters before leaving the podium.
Overall, the reception is overwhelmingly positive for Kelce as he rides off into the sunset. NFL fans are praising his retirement speech as one of the most emotional and honest of all time.