- Jason Kelce reportedly told his teammates Monday night that he was done
- And Eagles fans are understandably saddened by the news
- DailyMail.com provides all the latest international sports news
Eagles fans have flooded social media with tributes to Jason Kelce after it was reported Monday morning that the All-Pro center is retiring.
Kelce looked emotional as he left the field after the Eagles’ 32-9 wild-card loss to the Bucs, and we know why: He told his teammates he was retiring after the game, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Although Kelce, 36, has yet to address the news himself, Philly fans haven’t waited to offer their tributes, with one fan calling him the “Eagle of the Century.”
“What Jason Kelce did in an Eagles jersey was amazing,” said that fan on X. “The engine for the team his entire career. The Eagle of this century. I don’t know what we’;; do it without him.”
Another said: ‘I must have a lot of love for this man. What he has meant to his teammates, the organization and the city. All the community work he does, some we see, some we don’t. Thank you for helping bring a Super Bowl to this team and for being the man that you are. I love you @JasonKelce.”
Jason Kelce’s reported retirement has understandably saddened many Eagles fans
He walked up to his wife Kylie and father Ed after losing to the Bucs on Monday night
Kelce puts football at the top of his game after being named first-team All-Pro for the sixth time last week.
He was the 191st overall pick (sixth round) of the 2011 NFL Draft. He spent his entire 13-year career with the Eagles, helping the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2018.
The Cleveland Heights, Ohio native developed a reputation as a man of the people and also devoted some of his time off the field to philanthropy, as he and his brother Travis participated in an event benefiting the Eagles Autism Foundation in June.
So it’s no wonder Eagles fans far and wide are sad to see the fan favorite go.
@JasonKelce thank you for all you have done and given to the city!,” said another fan. ‘Congratulations on a great career! Good luck with your future! I hope you will continue to be with the Eagles organization for years to come! Kelce University!!!!!”
Dawn Staley wore an Eagles jersey Monday when South Carolina played Kentucky — and later gave a moving tribute to Kelce
Another Philly fanatic added, “@JasonKelce thank you for all you have done for the city of Philadelphia. I didn’t watch football when you were drafted, but it was an honor to see you wear that midnight green these past few seasons. Thanks #62.”
And even South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley, a two-time national champion and Philadelphia native, paid tribute to Kelce.
“Thanks @JasonKelce_ for giving y’all! You are one of us and we are forever grateful,” she said.” ‘The sacrifices are over for your family, so enjoy him to the fullest. Love @Eagles fans far and wide!’
It showed a visibly emotional Kelce greet his family off the field after the Eagles’ loss on Monday.
Kelce retires after playing 205 total games for the Eagles, including 12 in the postseason.