As Philadelphia suffered its playoff defeat by Tampa Bay, cameras captured six-time All-Pro center Jason Kelce shedding tears – no surprise given he is 36.
Reports indicate that the future Hall-of-Famer recently informed teammates of his intentions to retire at the conclusion of 2023-24 season, before politely declining an opportunity to speak to reporters as he headed back towards locker room.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports
As Jason Kelce played out his last seconds for Philadelphia Eagles during Monday night’s wild-card loss to Tampa Bay Buccaneers, ESPN senior insider Adam Schefter reported that he became increasingly emotional on the sidelines. Kelce, 36 years old at that point, told teammates it would likely be his final game before officially retiring after saying so during Monday night’s wild-card contest against them.
Kelce has thought about retirement in recent seasons but this time appears serious about it. Although he didn’t address reporters after the game, he did appear visibly emotional as he headed back to his locker room.
Cleveland Heights native and Eagles draftee Carson Wentz was selected in the sixth round of 2011 NFL Draft by Philadelphia Eagles and went on to lead them in games played while also becoming their longest-tenured player and two-time Super Bowl Champion, while being honored as first team All Pro every year for six years running – being honored with induction into Pro Football Hall of Fame by 2029 reportedly.
Kelce’s emotional exit
Philadelpia Eagles center Jason Kelce may not have anticipated such an unceremonious end to his Hall-of-Fame career. Following Monday night’s loss against Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their wild-card playoff game, Kelce reportedly informed teammates this would be his last season with Philadelphia Eagles franchise.
Six-time All-Pro and future Hall of Famer Travis Kelce was visibly overcome with emotion at the conclusion of Sunday’s game, appearing to process what could have been his final outing and making his way back to the locker room following defeat. NFL cameras caught Kelce, 36, embracing his offensive line coach upon leaving the field as he made his exit.
As he left Raymond James Stadium, the star made sure to greet members of the media who surrounded him and smile broadly at those present. He and Kylie have used their NFL fame to support various philanthropic efforts including helping those living with autism.
His future with the Eagles
Kelce did not want to answer questions from reporters in the locker room in the wake of Monday night’s defeat, yet had plenty on his mind.
Kelce was visibly emotional as he watched his team fall to the Buccaneers, later hugging offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland. Kelce is a six-time All-Pro and two-time Super Bowl winner who will undoubtedly be honored with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Kelce holds the distinction of being the only player in NFL history to receive six consecutive first-team All-Pro selections and is one of only five centers to appear in more than five Pro Bowls. His commitment to Philadelphia has been well documented, leading the team in multiple ways throughout his 13 year career and leaving his mark with both teammates and fans alike. If Kelce decides to retire from professional football he has plenty of options open to him including podcasting with brother Travis as well as television.
His family’s reaction
Kelce was clearly distraught after the Eagles’ melancholy defeat to the Buccaneers; his tearful embrace with offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland after the game spoke volumes about how much it hurt him and as he returned to his locker room afterwards, cameras captured his sad expression.
At 36 years old, it seemed inevitable that 36-year-old center Michael Bennett would go down as one of Philadelphia’s finest ever players – an All-Pro selection in six of 13 seasons and Super Bowl champion in one. Unfortunately for Bennett however, his Hall of Fame hopes were dashed after just 13 seasons with Philadelphia as they took his spot as sixth round draft pick from 2011 on.
John was also beloved off the field, using his strong personality to become an immensely popular figure and use his celebrity status for charitable efforts such as working with the Eagles Autism Foundation. Kylie used her platform to raise autism awareness while also securing high-visibility sponsorship deals like Papa John’s. Together they had two young sons.
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