Kelce, widely regarded as one of the NFL’s greatest centers in history, earned seven Pro Bowl selections, six first-team All-Pro nods, and clinched a Super Bowl title during his illustrious career.
Announcing his retirement after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, Kelce, drafted by the team in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft, made his decision official at an emotional press conference held at the Philadelphia Eagles Training Center at the NovaCare Complex. The 36-year-old reflected on his deep-rooted passion for football, which began in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, where he played as a boy.
Through tears, Kelce shared, “So this all brings us here to today, where I announce that I am retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and today, I must admit, I am officially overrated, vastly overrated.” With a hint of humor, he acknowledged his underdog journey and expressed his ongoing love for the game.
Kelce expressed heartfelt gratitude to coaches, teammates, and even cafeteria workers, alongside his wife Kylie, mother Donna, father Ed, and brother Travis, with whom he shared a special bond. Recalling their childhood days playing football, Kelce nostalgically remembered their dreams of winning countless Super Bowls.
Contemplating retirement for over a year, Kelce’s decision was influenced by his health concerns and the impact on his young family, which he candidly discussed in his Prime documentary. Despite injuries throughout his career, including significant ones in 2012 and 2018, Kelce’s resilience and dedication were evident as he broke Eagles records and maintained his status as a football icon.
Looking forward, Kelce expressed interest in staying involved with the Eagles organization, emphasizing his desire to contribute beyond the field. He concluded his retirement speech by paying homage to the exhilaration and freedom football provided him, from backyard games with his brother to Friday nights under the lights at Cleveland Heights High School.
Kelce’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Philadelphia Eagles and leaves a lasting legacy in NFL history, characterized by his passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to the game he loves.