In a heartfelt farewell to the NFL, Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has announced his retirement, marking the end of an extraordinary 13-season tenure with the team. 

The announcement was made during an emotional press conference at the Philadelphia Eagles Training Center (March 4) at the NovaCare Complex. Kelce has become a vital member of the Eagles since being drafted in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft and leaves the game with an impressive legacy that includes seven Pro Bowl selections, six first-team All-Pro nods, and a Super Bowl championship.

An all-time great giving an all-time great retirement speech. @JasonKelce, forever a legend. pic.twitter.com/8jNXEcrizp

— NFL (@NFL) March 4, 2024

"So this all brings us here today, where I announce that I am retiring,"said Kelce during a press conference. "Where I announce I am retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, and today, I must admit, I am officially overrated, vastly overrated." 

He continued, "It took a lot of hard work and determination getting here. I have been the underdog my entire career, and I mean this when I say it: I wish I still was." 

Kelce,36, reflected on his journey in football, a passion he found as a child in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. He shared memories of his early days, collegiate career, and professional highlights during the speech. As he expressed gratitude toward his coaches, teammates, and family, his eyes filled with tears, and his voice began to shake. 

The highly anticipated speech also touched upon his bond with his brother Travis, whom he shared countless memories with on and off the field. 

"We won countless Super Bowls in our minds, before even leaving the house,"shared Kelce, recalling his childhood.

No Keg videos this year, I have come to a decision and will address it at a press conference this afternoon.

— Jason Kelce (@JasonKelce) March 4, 2024

Kelce's retirement has been a topic of discussion for more than a year, influenced by the physical toll of the sport on his health and its impact on his young family. A revealing moment came after the Eagles' season-ending loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on January 15, when Kelce's emotional state hinted at his looming decision. 

"Every logical thing is telling me I should stop playing football. I've got to tear my body apart," he said in his Amazon Prime documentary. "It's getting harder and harder to play. There have been little things that are not big things yet but are going to turn into big things the longer I play." 

Throughout his career, Kelce faced significant challenges, including injuries that would have sidelined players. He overcame a torn MCL and a partially torn ACL in 2012, played through a Grade 2 MCL sprain, foot, elbow, and shoulder injuries in 2018, and voiced concerns over the long-term health implications of the sport, particularly CTE, given his role as a father to three daughters – Wyatt, 4, Elliotte, 3, and Bennett, 12 months. 

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A post shared by Kylie (McDevitt) Kelce (@kykelce)

"I am fearful about what the impacts of football are going to mean long-term," he previously revealed before welcoming his youngest. "I have two girls and… some people end up getting CTE, and some guys live long, healthy lives. I have no idea what's gonna happen." 

Kelce's decision to retire is significant for the Eagles and the NFL. Known for his resilience, leadership, and exceptional skill, Kelce is regarded as one of the greatest centers in NFL history. His departure leaves a void in the Eagles' lineup and marks the end of an era for the team and its fans. 

Following his last game, he gave The Philadelphia Inquirer a glimpse into his future plans, where he is still involved in the organization. Despite his decision, sports fans believe he will transition into a new role within the organization or become a sports correspondent. This theory considers how he can continue contributing to the team's success. 

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"I do know I still want to be involved in the organization and still want to be a part of it," he exclusively told the outlet. "Because I don't want to ever feel like I'm on the outside looking in on these achievements and these accolades and these opportunities that largely represent entire cities and fan bases and organizations." 

Given the popularity of his podcast "New Heights" with brother Travis Kelce. With his home in Philadelphia conveniently located for travel, Kelce is well-positioned for roles on NBC's and CBS' NFL pregame shows, offering him a manageable one- or two-day workweek in Stamford, Conn., and Manhattan, respectively. NBC, seeking a younger and more contemporary roster, may see Kelce as an ideal addition. What do you think Kelce will do next? Let us know your Fan Of View below. 

Photo Credit: @philadelphiaeagles on Instagram.