Everyone knew it was looming.
That the news could break at any point.
To hear it officially reported for the first time, though? As much as you say you're prepared for it, you never truly are.
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Just a few hours after the Eagles wrapped up their collapse of a season in the wild card round with a loss to the Buccaneers, it was reported that Jason Kelce is retiring.
A future Hall of Famer. Super Bowl Champion. Six-time All-Pro with seven Pro Bowl selections to his name. One of the best centers to ever play in the NFL.
More importantly, the heart and soul of the Philadelphia Eagles for the last 13 seasons.
No one is ever ready to say goodbye — especially to a player and person who understood their city to a tee. Kelce embodied everything it meant to be an athlete in Philadelphia and the city embraced him every step of the way.
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The thought of the 2024 season rolling around and not having No. 62 play is bizarre. It may not be something that fully sinks in until Week 1.
Maybe not even then.
While everyone awaits the official announcement from Kelce himself, fans have already flocked to social media to share their appreciation and thank him for all that he's done.
Honestly, the posts could have gone on for ages.
It's bittersweet but the consensus confirms two things (that were really already known):
1. Everyone in the league loves and has an immense amount of respect for Kelce. From fans, to teammates, players across the league, coaches, front offices, media members and beyond.
2. Everyone is going to miss him. Whether you root for the Eagles or not — this is a huge loss for the sport. We may not see another center like him in our lifetime.
How lucky we have been.
Thank you, Jason Kelce, for everything.
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