Jason Kelce has been playing football for the NFL for 13 years and has played on the Philadelphia Eagles from 2011-2024. He has a wife, Kylie Kelce, and three daughters, Bennie, Eliotte and Wyatt. On March 4th, 2024 he ended his football career. There was suspicion for a while about Jason retiring; it was a matter of when he was going to follow through. He reportedly told his teammates about his intentions to retire after the Eagles’ lost 32-9 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He later confirmed his retirement in a press conference at the Eagles’ NovaCare complex in South Philadelphia, leaving many in tears.
Jason Kelce had an outstanding football career. He broke the Eagles’ record for most consecutive games started. He has started in 145 straight games for Philadelphia; the last time he missed a game was in 2014. He won the Super Bowl back in 2018 and had the amazing opportunity to face his brother’s team in the Super Bowl back in 2023. Jason Kelce was also a six-time First-Team All-Pro, seven-time Pro Bowl selection, and Super Bowl champion. Kelce will go down in history as one of the greatest Philadelphia Eagles of all time. Above all, Kelce will go down as one of the NFL’s best offensive linemen. Jason’s press conference was around 40 minutes long. The conference was heartfelt and tearful. As much as Jason has wanted to retire, it was still heartbreaking for him to end his career. He knew that this was the right move for him. Throughout his career he has always balanced his football life with his family life. During the conference, he talked about his career with the Eagles and thanked those who helped him reach new heights, both in Philadelphia and from his childhood.
I asked some of my classmates how they felt about Jason Kelce, his career and his retirement. Many who weren’t familiar with football read about his story/career and were very touched with everything he has accomplished. I showed clips from his press conference. We noted how not many men get vulnerable in front of a camera like Jason did, which was very touching to watch. Most knew his retirement was coming but were still shocked when announced.
His brother Travis is still playing for the Kansas City Chiefs and has won the Super Bowl two years in a row. Jason has never been jealous of his brother and the wins he has accomplished. He has always been proud of his little brother. The Kelce brothers are on a podcast together called “New Heights” and this is giving them the opportunity to make millions in a separate partnership. Overall, Kelce has retired to be more connected with his family after a 13 year NFL career and only strives for what is best for him and his family.