Jason Kelce announced his retirement from the NFL after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Many speculated about Kelce's retirement after the Eagles' season-ending Wild Card loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in January, but on Monday the six-time All-Pro center made it official.
Kelce didn't get through much of his announcement before breaking down in tears.
In his speech, the 2018 Super Bowl winner talked about his passion for football, which began in middle school, and his love for the sport wherever he played, whether it was on the field, in the backyard with his brother Travis, or on the playground with his friends.
Kelce thanked all of the influences throughout his life, from buddies to teachers and from coaches to family.
The tears flowed again as he spoke of "the call" from Andy Reid on draft day and then the same call his brother received two years later.
Kelce also spoke on the impact of the Eagles' 2018 Super Bowl win.
Kelce was again overcome with emotion as he talked about his heartbreak over Philly's 2023 Super Bowl loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, but also the pride he felt for KC's tight end, his brother, Travis.
Kelce then made the announcement.
"So this all brings us here to today where I announce that I'm retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles."
"And today I must admit that I am officially overrated, vastly overrated, but it took a lot of hard work and determination getting here."
"I have been the underdog my entire career, and I mean this when I say it, few things gave me more joy than proving people wrong."
People on social media congratulated Kelce on his stellar career, and acknowledged that his display of emotion was a testament to his love for the game.
Can feel this wholeheartedly.\n\nA massive part of your life is coming to an end. This chapter is over. \n\nEvery moment to get here comes flooding in to mind. \n\nWhile it\u2019s a wave of emotions, it\u2019s a beautiful thing because it meant that much to him.\n\nCongrats on one hell of a\u2026â (@)
If there were any dry eyes after the previous videos, they were probably gone after this version that included brother Travis' reaction.
Kelce thanked Philadelphia "with all of his heart" and finished:
"I don't know what's next, but I look forward to the new challenges and opportunities that await."
"And I know that I carry with me the lessons from my time here and that forever we shall all share the bond of being Philadelphians."
You can watch his full announcement on YouTube or the Eagles' website.
Congratulations on your retirement, Jason!
