Jason Kelce, esteemed center for the Philadelphia Eagles, is rumored to have retired after a recent heartbreaking 32-9 loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Wild Card round.
The rumor started after ESPN claimed that Kelce told his teammates about retiring after the 2023-2024 season. The anonymous tip was seemingly supported after a camera caught him in an emotional state following the game.
However, Kelce combated these rumors on his podcast “New Heights”, which he hosted with his brother Travis Kelce. On the show, the Eagles center stated that, “I just don’t think you’re in a position after a game like that to really, you know, make that decision.”
While Kelce seemed on the fence about his retirement, fans were devastated for the days following ESPN’s circulation of rumors. It was fitting for the media to release these speculations at the end of the NFL season, when players tend to retire. What makes this rumor different, however, is the public’s adoration of Jason Kelce’s persona.
Kelce’s persona isn’t one built up simply around sports; he’s an idol that fans look up to even if they aren’t particularly fond of the Eagles. His character and strength have inspired others since the start of his career, most notably through his charitable acts to the city of Philadelphia.
Kelce’s spotlight began after the 2017-2018 season, when the Philadelphia Eagles won a shocking victory against the New England Patriots 41-33. During this season, the media constantly looked down on the team and made bizarre comments about the coaches and players After their unexpected victory, Kelce took to the stand and made a speech in Philadelphia using the term “underdog,” an inspiring way to influence others to look at those who are often neglected.
Although the word had previously been used to describe a team expected to lose, Kelce’s speech brought a new perspective to the team, and the slogan set the stage for the center’s charitable work.
In 2022, Kelce founded the “(Be)Philly” foundation in order to give opportunities to a city full of underdogs. The program is used to benefit the lives of Philadelphia youth by improving their education. In an article published by ABC in early 2023, the foundation was able to help 3,000 kids in 23 different schools with their education by providing resources inside and outside of school. Since then, the program has helped out around 900 different organizations around the city.
Kelce is someone who cares about his community not only in word but also in deed. His charitable acts have improved the lives of many residents in Philadelphia as well as his beloved team. Regardless of whether or not he retires, Kelce’s legacy will not stop once he is off the field.
