NFL legend Jason Kelce has announced his retirement after 13 seasons in the NFL.
Kelce, who played his entire career with the Philadelphia Eagles after being selected in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL draft, had hinted at retirement throughout the 2023-24 season. After weeks of speculation, Kelce officially announced his retirement Monday in a tear-filled press conference.
“I’ve been asked many times why did I choose football — what drew me to the game — and I never have an answer that gets it right,” Kelce said during a 45-minute speech.
“Stepping on the field was the most alive and free I had ever felt. There was a visceral feeling with football, unlike any sport. The hairs on my arms would stand up,” he continued “I could hit somebody, run around like a crazed lunatic and then get told, ‘Good job.’ I love football.”
Kelce, who collected a Super Bowl ring and seven Pro Bowl honors during his time with the Eagles, said it was a goal of his to play his entire career in one city. “It has always been a goal of mine to play my whole career in one city,” Kelce said. “I couldn’t have dreamt a better one if I tried.”