The Philadelphia Eagles center, drafted by the team in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft, announced his retirement during an emotional press conference on March 4.
“So this all brings us here to today, where I announce that I am retiring,” Kelce said through tears nearly 40 minutes into his speech. “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.”
Kelce is widely considered one of the greatest centers in NFL history. He was selected to seven Pro Bowls, named first-team All-Pro six times, and clinched one Super Bowl title throughout his accomplished 13-season football career.
In the last five of those seasons, Kelce has also embraced fatherhood. The athlete is the father of three daughters — Wyatt, 4, Elliotte, 23 months, and Bennett, 12 months — with his wife, Kylie.
“She has also given me three beautiful girls and a life that increasingly brings me more fulfillment off the field than it does on,” Kelce said of his wife during the press conference. “I think one of the best things a person can be in this world is a father.”
Now that Kelce is officially retired from the NFL, fans have started to speculate about what the future might look like for the athlete. While Kelce didn’t specifically address his plans during the press conference, he has previously opened up about a few possibilities.
Will Jason Kelce Still Be Involved with the Philadelphia Eagles?
Although Jason Kelce announced his retirement from the NFL, it doesn’t necessarily mean that he’s stepping away from the Philadelphia Eagles for good. The retired center has expressed interest in staying involved with the organization despite not physically playing for the team.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen for me, but I do know I still want to be involved in the organization and still want to be a part of it, regardless of what the decision is,” Kelce told The Philadelphia Inquirer in January.
“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,” he continued. “It’s too good a feeling to pass up.”
Future Plans for Jason Kelce
While Kelce hasn’t detailed his post-retirement plans, there are several avenues he might explore:
Coaching or Advisory Role: Given his deep knowledge of the game and connection with the Eagles, Kelce could transition into a coaching or advisory role within the organization. His experience and leadership would be invaluable for mentoring younger players.
Broadcasting: Kelce’s charismatic personality and football insight make him a strong candidate for a career in sports broadcasting. His ability to break down plays and offer in-depth analysis could land him a spot as a commentator or analyst.
Philanthropy and Community Work: Kelce has always been active in community service and philanthropy. Post-retirement, he may dedicate more time to charitable activities, supporting causes he is passionate about and giving back to the community.
Spending Time with Family: As a father of three young daughters, Kelce has expressed the joy and fulfillment he finds in family life. Retirement will allow him more time to be present with his family and enjoy the milestones of his children’s growth.
Jason Kelce’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable NFL career, but it also opens up a new chapter filled with opportunities. Whether he stays involved with the Eagles, ventures into broadcasting, or focuses on his family and philanthropy, fans will undoubtedly continue to follow and support him in his future endeavors.
