Jason Kelce’s retirement announcement was filled with legendary quotes and plenty of teams for the Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro center.
The six-time NFL All-Pro and former sixth-round pick out of Cincinnati has been a staple of not only one of the best offensive lines in the league but has transcended the way centers are seen from a team-building perspective.
In that way, Kelce’s career has been nothing short of historic. And it’s left the NFL community saying goodbye to one of its more charismatic stars in league history.
NFL World Reacts to Jason Kelce’s Retirement
In front of reporters, friends, and family, Kelce broke down almost instantly when beginning his retirement statement that centered around his favorite memories of the game and his career.
From thanking his high school band teacher to the coaches he played under in his NFL career, Kelce made it known that his love for the city was something that would never die.
“Some people struggle to play in this city,” Kelce said, fighting through tears. “They can’t handle the boos, the media, or our fans. I consider it a blessing to play in the most passionate sports town in America. If you’re not performing, they will let you know. But as long as you show effort, they will love you. They’re not gonna accept your excuses and soft-ass nonsense.”
It was that love for the game and his team that has made Kelce an all-time great across the league.
Nobody cares more about this game than @JasonKelce. ❤️😢 pic.twitter.com/FEnllKeDtR
— NFL (@NFL) March 4, 2024
#eagles center Jason Kelce has announced he will retire from the NFL. He absolutely did it his way at every turn. He changed the way the center position was played. Next stop Canton. A speech that we are all waiting for. pic.twitter.com/xmJY1lwVr0
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) March 4, 2024
This is a Hall of Fame retirement speech from Jason Kelce. The man knows how to connect to everyone by simply being comfortable with himself.
— Kevin Negandhi (@KevinNegandhi) March 4, 2024
It wasn’t just major media members that reacted in kind to Kelce’s comments. Teammates, both past and present, all spoke up on Twitter to give their congratulations to the future Hall of Fame center.
“Congrats to my good friend (@JasonKelce) on a legendary career,” former teammate Beau Allen tweeted. “(He) is an incredible leader, unbelievable competitor, and a phenomenal friend. Truly a privilege to share so much time with you on and off the field. Love you, brother.”
Former Eagles guard Brandon Brooks gave his tribute on Instagram to Kelce, saying, “It was an honor to play beside one of the greatest leaders of men and teammates I’ve ever known.”
Future Hall of Fame edge rusher J.J. Watt also put in his remarks on a player he had seen plenty of over the decade.
“Just go ahead and get the Gold Jacket fitted right now,” Watt tweeted. “Congrats on one hell of a career (Kelce) pleasure and an honor to share the field with you.”
Even new NFL players like Oregon center Jackson Powers-Johnson made it clear that not only did the Eagles’ center change the position but was an instrumental piece in their development.
“An ICON for all center and offensive lineman,” Powers-Johnson tweeted. “Truly humbled to be able to watch such greatness, physicality, and passion. The goat in my books…. Congratulations @JasonKelce.”
Current Eagles Members Eagles Give Props To Kelce
The NFL world may be celebrating the career of a legend, but for those in Philadelphia, Kelce’s impact goes beyond the game of football. Whether it was his support for the Eagles Autism Foundation or his (Be)Philly foundation, Kelce has been one of the top leaders and faces of the organization in recent memory.
“Today is a bittersweet day, because while it is hard to imagine the Eagles taking the field without Jason Kelce in uniform, we are also excited to celebrate his career and support him as his journey continues,” Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement.
“Although Jason is retiring from the NFL, I have no doubt that he will continue to be successful in everything he does, and his impact on our organization and this city will reverberate for many years to come.”
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that several coaches and players have already commented on the announcement.
“Jason, Some of my fondest coaching moments have been by your side these past 11 seasons. I’m so proud of the player you’ve worked to become and legacy you’ve built,” Eagles offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland said. “I will miss having you by my side. It’s been my honor & I congratulate you on an incredible career. Stout out.”
Eagles cornerback Darius Slay later commented saying, “Congrats to my guy @JasonKelce amazing career!!! #EaglesGoat.”
After 13 seasons and six first-team All-Pros, Kelce has officially called it a career, and the rest of the league has been left to pick up the pieces that a Hall of Fame, transcending center has left.
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