In an emotional press conference, Jason Kelce declared his retirement from the National Football League (NFL) as center for the Philadelphia Eagles. In nearly a four-hour-long news conference, the 36-year-old football star broke down to tears as he reminisced about the significance of football in both his early life and professional career.
“I’ve been asked many times why I choose football, what drew me to the game, and I never have an answer that gets it right,” Jason admitted.
“The best way I can explain it is what draws you to your favorite song, your favorite book. It’s what it makes you feel – the seriousness of it, the intensity of it. Stepping on the field was the most alive and free I had ever felt,” the NFL star added.
After the Eagle’s January 32-9 playoff defeat to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it was rumored that Kelce had announced his retirement to his teammates. However, he did not formally announce it yet, which sparked hope that he might be open to the possibility of playing one more season for the Eagles.
During his announcement, Kelce had honored several people who became significant to his football career– his brother, the Philadelphia fans, and his former teammates and coaches.
Pro Football Hall of Fame
Being a seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro pick, Jason Kelce has a high chance of being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He had successfully played for the Eagles in is whole 13-year NFL career, including the unforgettable 2018 Super Bowl victory of the team.
Back in 2023, Jason and his younger brother, Travis, had faced off in a Super Bowl LVII match, wherein the Eagles lost to the Kansas City Chiefs. In the said press conference, Jason made a very heartful speech towards his brother.
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