Retired NFL center Jason Kelce gets emotional reflecting on Eagles’ postseason run without him
The Philadelphia Eagles former center Jason Kelce played an important role in their maiden Super Bowl title in 2017.
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Jason Kelce (Image via Imago)
Every athlete knows the lingering pride of feeling like a player, even after their career ends. It’s a bittersweet emotion, reflecting on once being part of a team and its glory. Retired Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce is experiencing that sentiment as the Eagles advance to the divisional round after defeating the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card.
The Eagles are competing in the postseason for the first time since Kelce retired last March. Kelce, who donned the Green and White from 2011 to 2023, was a key part of the Super Bowl-winning team in 2017 led by Nick Foles.
In a segment on Sports Radio 94WIP, Jason Kelce admitted feeling a sense of missing out on the Eagles’ playoff qualification and potential postseason run. However, he expressed confidence that retiring in the offseason was the right decision.
I’m very much happy for all of the guys there, all of the coaches, all of the players. Of course, I’m one season out of it so I do have some part of me that wishes I could be there, be a part of something like this. It was my time, I still feel like I made the right decision. This is the way it goes. It’s been fortunate that it’s happened this quickly for the Eagles.
Jason Kelce said
In the interview, Kelce, however, stated that he feels happy that he had something to do with the team’s return to the playoffs.
To a certain extent I think that I still have had an impact on Stout [Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland] in his career and some of these guys in their career… In some ways, I still feel I’m a part of the team if I’m being quite frank even though my impact is far, far, far less. Would love to be out there with those guys going to battle. It’s more just immense pride that they’re getting it done.
Jason Kelce added
Really cool seeing Jason Kelce visibly emotional once a caller asked how he felt about watching this team in the playoffs without him. pic.twitter.com/akY075UsE2
— Sam Stafford (Wilson) (@SamStafff) January 17, 2025
The Philadelphia Eagles will now face the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round on Sundat for their first conference championship game since the 2022 Super Bowl loss.
There are many reasons for Philadelphia Eagles’ fans to hope for this season
The Philadelphia Eagles’ offense is one of the most complete and balanced units this season. Their offensive line boasts three Pro Bowl selections and one first-team alternate, providing elite protection and run-blocking capabilities. They feature a 2,000-yard rusher in Saquon Barkley.
Furthermore, they possess one of the league’s top receiving duos, while their quarterback efficiently manages the game, distributing the ball without costly turnovers. This dangerous offense was already stacked with talent before the season, and the addition of Barkley further strengthened their dynamic attack.
Defensively, the Eagles have been dominant. They finished the regular season ranked No. 1 in both overall defense and pass defense, a remarkable turnaround from last year’s struggles. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has revitalized the unit with the new draft picks and the veterans.
As the Eagles prepare for their 2024 playoff campaign, health is on their side. Assuming quarterback Jalen Hurts clears concussion protocol, the team will enter the postseason with all 22 starters available. This full-strength roster, combined with its offensive firepower and defensive prowess, positions Philadelphia as a formidable contender for a deep playoff run.
Related: Former Eagles RB highlights Saquon Barkley’s surprising weakness
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Mohammed Bazim
(425 Articles Published)