NFL: Jason Kelce confirms retirement after 13 seasons with Philadelphia Eagles

A tearful Jason Kelce confirmed his retirement on Monday after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.

The 36-year-old spent his entire career with Philadelphia, helping them win their first Super Bowl in 2018 and reach the NFL showpiece again in 2023.

Kelce was a sixth-round draft pick by the Eagles in 2011 but is now regarded as one of the NFL’s best-ever centres.

He cried as he began a statement lasting more than 40 minutes and continued to hold back tears.

“I am very proud knowing where I was once was and the legacy I have left behind,” he said.

Kelce denied that he had decided to retire in January, in the wake of the Eagles’ exit from last season’s play-offs, saying he needed time to consider his future.

A seven-time Pro Bowl selection, he played 205 games and holds the franchise record for consecutive starts.

He will be remembered as a Philadelphia legend, securing that status with a passionate speech during their Super Bowl parade in 2018 – on the steps made famous by the Rocky movies.

The Eagles returned to the Super Bowl to take on the Kansas City Chiefs in 2023, with Kelce facing his brother Travis.