Despite multiple reports saying Jason Kelce will retire, the Philadelphia Eagles center hasn’t made a final decision on his future.
“I don’t know. I’m trying to figure it out right now. Right now, exploring different opportunities if I end up retiring,” Kelce recently said on the “Superfly” podcast with comedians Dana Carvey and David Spade. “Still working out and staying in shape if I end up playing again.”
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported the 36-year-old told his teammates he was retiring following a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the wild-card round. However, Kelce refuted this, indicating he’s still on the fence.
He’s keeping his options open. According to Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports, he met with Fox and ESPN to discuss a TV career if he hangs up his cleats.
Kelce is one of the best O-linemen in the NFL. Last season, he earned his sixth first-team All-Pro nod. Pro Football Focus gave him a 78.8 grade, the sixth-best at his position. This might make walking away from the game more challenging.
On a recent episode of “Green Light with Chris Long,” Kelce called retirement “daunting,” noting how much he’ll miss football. On the flip side, Kelce needs to think about his long-term health. The Super Bowl champion admitted he dealt with an MCL sprain throughout the season. He’s reportedly undergone seven surgeries in 13 seasons.
He’ll also have plenty of opportunities off the field thanks to “New Heights,” his successful podcast with his brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. It has more than two million subscribers on YouTube.
Clearly, he has a lot to consider and needs more time before he chooses to return or walk away.