Jason Kelce, a name that echoes through the halls of NFL history, has left fans buzzing with questions about his future. After a stellar career with the Philadelphia Eagles, whispers of retirement have swirled around this beloved center. As of March 27, 2025, the football world remains captivated by his journey, his legacy, and what lies ahead. Let’s dive into the latest details, explore his incredible career, and uncover whether Jason Kelce has truly hung up his cleats for good.

The Big Question: Has Jason Kelce Retired?

Yes, Jason Kelce has retired from the NFL. He officially announced his retirement on March 4, 2024, after 13 remarkable seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. The announcement came during an emotional press conference where he reflected on his career, his love for the game, and his gratitude toward his teammates, coaches, and fans. Tears flowed as he spoke, marking the end of an era for one of football’s most respected players. Since then, Kelce has transitioned into new ventures, but his retirement remains a hot topic as fans and analysts speculate about his next moves.

Kelce’s decision didn’t shock everyone, though. Rumors had circulated for years, especially after the Eagles’ Super Bowl loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2023. At 36 years old during his final season, he had battled injuries and the physical toll of playing center. Yet, his retirement still hit hard, leaving a void in Philadelphia and the NFL at large. Today, in 2025, we look back at his choice and see how it’s shaped his life and the Eagles’ trajectory.

A Legendary Career: Jason Kelce’s NFL Journey

Jason Kelce didn’t just play football—he redefined what it means to be a center. Drafted in the sixth round by the Eagles in 2011, he quickly proved doubters wrong. His intelligence, toughness, and leadership turned him into a cornerstone of the team. Over 13 seasons, he racked up accolades that few can match. Seven Pro Bowl selections, six First-Team All-Pro honors, and a Super Bowl ring in 2018 highlight his resume. Kelce’s career stats boast over 193 regular-season games, a testament to his durability.

His crowning moment came during Super Bowl LII. The Eagles defeated the New England Patriots 41-33, and Kelce’s performance on the offensive line paved the way for victory. Who can forget his iconic parade speech? Dressed in a Mummer’s costume, he roared to the crowd about the underdog spirit of Philly. That moment cemented his status as a city legend. Even in his final years, Kelce remained elite, helping the Eagles reach Super Bowl LVII in 2023, though they fell short against his brother Travis Kelce’s Chiefs.

Kelce’s impact stretched beyond stats. He mastered the “tush push,” a play that became a Philly trademark. His ability to snap the ball and block with precision made him a quarterback’s best friend. Jalen Hurts, the Eagles’ star QB, often credited Kelce for his success. As 2025 unfolds, fans still marvel at how one man transformed an overlooked position into a spotlight role.

Why Did Jason Kelce Retire?

Retirement doesn’t come easy for athletes like Kelce. So, what pushed him to step away? First, the physical grind played a huge role. Playing center demands constant collisions, and Kelce’s body took a beating over 13 years. Back issues, knee pain, and countless bruises piled up. In a 2024 interview with GQ, he admitted his body felt better after shedding 20 pounds post-retirement, dropping from 277 to around 257 pounds. That weight loss eased his joints, hinting at the toll football had taken.

Next, the family factored in big time. Kelce and his wife, Kylie, have three daughters—Wyatt, Elliotte, and Bennett—with a fourth on the way in 2025. He often spoke about wanting to be present for them. During his retirement speech, he choked up mentioning how football’s demands pulled him from home. Now, he relishes dad duties, from school drop-offs to bedtime stories. Transitioning to family life gave him a new purpose after the gridiron.

Finally, Kelce felt he’d accomplished enough. Two Super Bowl appearances, a championship, and a Hall of Fame-worthy career left little unchecked. He told SiriusXM in March 2025 that he didn’t regret retiring, even after the Eagles won Super Bowl LIX without him. “I was done doing it,” he said, signaling peace with his choice. For Kelce, leaving on his terms trumped chasing more glory.

Life After Football: What’s Jason Kelce Up To in 2025?

Retirement hasn’t slowed Jason Kelce down. Instead, he’s jumped into new adventures with the same gusto he brought to football. One big move? Broadcasting. He joined ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown in 2024, offering halftime and postgame analysis. Fans love his wit and insight, honed from years in the trenches. His debut season earned rave reviews, and in 2025, he’s a fixture on the show, breaking down plays with a grin.

Podcasting keeps him busy too. Alongside his brother Travis, Kelce co-hosts New Heights, a hit show launched in 2022. The podcast blends football talk, family banter, and life updates, drawing millions of listeners. In March 2025, Jason shared a hilarious story about a weight-loss challenge with ex-teammate Beau Allen. They aimed to lose fat while gaining muscle, a “stupid competition” he said kept him sane post-NFL. The brothers’ chemistry shines, making it a must-listen.

Kelce’s also embracing family chaos. With baby number four arriving soon, he and Kylie brace for “crazy” times. He told Travis on New Heights in February 2025, “It’s gonna be intense, but I’m ready.” Beyond that, he’s dodged coaching rumors, prioritizing family and media gigs over returning to the sidelines. As of now, Kelce thrives in this new chapter, proving retirement isn’t the end—it’s a fresh start.

The Eagles Without Kelce: How Are They Holding Up?

Losing Jason Kelce left a gaping hole in Philly. The Eagles leaned on Cam Jurgens, a 2022 draft pick, to fill his shoes at center. Jurgens stepped up, and by 2025, he’s earned praise for his grit. Still, replacing Kelce’s leadership and skill isn’t simple. The offensive line adjusted, with Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata anchoring the unit. Remarkably, the Eagles won Super Bowl LIX in February 2025 against the Chiefs, proving their resilience.

Kelce’s absence sparked debate, though. Some fans wondered if he’d regret retiring, especially after that victory. He squashed those doubts, saying on SiriusXM, “This team became the best version of itself without me.” The win showcased Philly’s depth, with Saquon Barkley’s historic running game stealing the show. Kelce’s legacy as a culture-builder lived on, even from the sidelines.

Interestingly, his retirement overlapped with other Eagles legends stepping away. Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham retired in 2024 and 2025, respectively, ending the “Core Four” era with Lane Johnson as the last man standing. Fans felt the sting, especially when Kelce missed Graham’s retirement ceremony in March 2025, sparking chatter. No bad blood exists—he simply had prior commitments—but it underscored how fast the page turned.

Wrapping It Up: Jason Kelce’s New Dawn

Jason Kelce retired, yes, but his story keeps evolving. March 4, 2024, marked the end of his playing days, yet 2025 finds him thriving in fresh roles. From ESPN to New Heights, he’s traded cleats for a mic, all while raising a growing family. The Eagles soar on without him, but his imprint lingers. A Hall of Fame nod looms, and Philly’s love never fades. So, did Jason Kelce retire? Absolutely—but he’s far from done.

FAQs About Jason Kelce’s Retirement

1. When did Jason Kelce officially announce his retirement from the NFL?

Farnham Jason Kelce announced his retirement on March 4, 2024, during a heartfelt press conference. He reflected on his 13-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles, thanking everyone who supported him along the way. The moment was emotional, with Kelce tearing up as he said goodbye to football.

2. What were the main reasons Jason Kelce decided to retire?

Kelce cited physical wear and tear, family priorities, and a sense of fulfillment as key reasons. His body ached from years of hits, and he wanted more time with his wife and daughters. Plus, with a Super Bowl win and a stellar career, he felt ready to move on.

3. How has Jason Kelce spent his time since retiring in 2024?

Memphis Since retiring, Kelce joined ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown and continues co-hosting the New Heights podcast with his brother Travis. He’s also focused on family, preparing for his fourth child in 2025, and enjoys lighthearted challenges like his weight-loss bet with Beau Allen.

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