Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce announces he is retiring from the NFL

Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce is retiring from the NFL, he announced at a news conference Monday.

Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce is retiring from the NFL, the 36-year-old announced at an emotional news conference Monday. Likely a future Pro Football Hall of Famer, Kelce is a seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro selection. He spent his entire 13-season NFL career with the Eagles, including the team’s 2018 Super Bowl win. During a lengthy press conference lasting around 40 minutes, Kelce broke down in tears on numerous occasions as he explained what football has meant to him during his childhood and professional career. “I’ve been asked many times why did I choose football, what drew me to the game, and I never have an answer that gets it right,” he said. “The best way I can explain it is what draws you to your favorite song, your favorite book. It’s what it makes you feel – the seriousness of it, the intensity of it. Stepping on the field was the most alive and free I had ever felt.” Following the Eagles’ 32-9 playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in January, it was reported that Kelce had told his teammates he was retiring.