According to various sources, Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has informed his teammates that he would retire from the NFL.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo broke the news Tuesday morning, following the Eagles’ 32-9 playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
However, the 36-year-old stated on Wednesday that he has not formally retired yet and that his emotions were too strong to make a declaration following the game.
“I didn’t announce what I was doing on purpose, despite, I guess, what’s been leaked to the media,” Kelce was quoted as saying on the “New Heights” podcast earlier this month.
“But I believe there’s a lot of – people can sense body language and whatnot. I just don’t believe you’re in a position to make that choice after that game. I simply don’t.
“There is too much emotion in the moment. There’s too much going on at the moment to really comprehend that decision.
Kelce, who has spent his entire NFL career with the Eagles, is a seven-time Pro Bowler, six-time All-Pro, and is widely regarded as a potential Pro Football Hall of Famer.
He won Super Bowl LII against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in 2018, but fell short against his brother Travis’ Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII last year. It was the first time two siblings faced each other in a Super Bowl.
Kelce and Philadelphia were seen as possible Super Bowl candidates after starting 10-1 this season, but they dropped five of their last six games before falling at the first hurdle on the road against the Buccaneers.
Kelce was noticeably distraught and did not talk with media following his earlier-than-planned leave. He has now stated that he is in no haste to make an announcement about his future plans.
“I’m not trying to be dramatic and continue to draw this thing out,” he said. “I truly am not.
“It’s simply that I believe that when it comes time to formally announce what’s going to happen in the future, it will be done in a definite manner that pays tribute to a lot of people and individuals who have meant a lot to me and have contributed to the career I’ve had.
“I don’t believe it’s appropriate or accurate to do that immediately following a game like that.
“I’m a little frustrated with everything that’s going on. However, I believe something will be said in the future. But I addressed the squad and basically stated the same thing I just told you (Travis).”
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts called his center a “legend in the city” and praised his effect on Philadelphia, the league, and the young quarterback himself.
“He knows how much I love and appreciate him,” Hurts told reporters. “He understands how much I have gained from him. He will always hold a particular place in my heart.
“He’s special, and I adore him,” said Philadelphia head coach Nick Sirriani. “He’s one of the most special guys I’ve been around.”
