March 4th marked the end of an era in football. Jason Kelce, beloved football player, announced his retirement after 13 seasons in the NFL. Kelce played as a center for the Philadelphia Eagles and is recognized as one of the greatest of his time. The Eagles drafted him with the 191th pick in 2011. No 6th-round pick has ever been selected to more All-Pro teams. He has made a lasting impact on the history of football.
Kelce held a press conference at the NovaCare Complex where he announced that he was ending his career after 193 games, seven trips to the playoffs, and two Super Bowls. During this press conference, Jason Kelce expressed his gratitude for Jeff Stoutland (the coach for the Philadelphia Eagles) and thanked him for believing in him when it seemed like no one else did.
He said, “I saw firsthand the wrath of the Eagles fans in the 2016 Eagles season. And rightfully so. I had an awful start to that season where I was often overpowered, had many holding penalties that cost our team and looked like one of the worst centers in the league. I was wanted out of town by nearly everyone. And it wasn’t just the fans that wanted me gone. It was nearly everyone in this organization. That offseason, I heard trade rumors galore and speculation I’d be cut. I imagine if the Eagles had received a trade offer for a brand new set of washing machines, they may have pulled the trigger. Hell, if I was in charge, I would have pulled the trigger. There’s only one person in this building who still wanted me. And it’s he who I have to thank most for the career I’ve had. That’s Jeff Stoutland. No one has been more influential or meaningful to my success on the field in my career than Stout.”
Throughout this conference Kelce reflected on the ups and downs of his career. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he was given and his pleasure with the legacy he has left behind. In addition to thanking his teammates and his coaches, Kelce also gave a special thank you to his wife, Kylie Kelce.
“I think it’s no coincidence I have enjoyed my best years of my career with Kylie by my side. Every accolade I have ever received has come with her in my life. She has brought the best out of me through love, devotion, support, honesty, intelligence, and, of course, the swift kick in the ass from time to time. She has also given me three beautiful girls and a life that increasingly brings me more fulfillment off the field than it does on. We’ve had a great run, Ky,” he said.
This announcement did not come as a surprise to most fans as there had been speculation of his retirement in the past. Kelce addresses this and says that he denied these rumors because at the time he was not in the right mental state to make a decision with such a big impact. Although it is unknown what lies in store for Kelce in the future, one thing is certain, his unwavering dedication to the game of football will continue to inspire fans for years to come.
