Jason Kelce has called time on his incredible career in the NFL, and he became overwhelmed with emotion during his announcement.
Alongside his brother Travis, wife Kylie, and parents Ed and Donna by his side, Jason put an end to months of speculation about his future in the NFL after an illustrious 13-year career, per Sky Sports.
Jason Kelce sobs as he announces his NFL retirement:
Jason was a sixth-round pick in the 2011 draft and has been an ever-present in the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line.
He spent his entire career in Philadelphia, with his crowning moment coming at the end of the 2017 season when he got his hands on the Super Bowl trophy.
Speculation about his retirement came after he was seen visibly emotional at the end of the last season following the conclusion of the Eagles' 32-9 playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The 36-year-old has now confirmed in a press conference that he is stepping away from football.
Jason Kelce gave an emotional press conference to announce his retirement. Credit: Tim Nwachukwu/Getty"I have been the underdog my entire career," Jason said, "And I mean this when I say it, I still wish I was."
Having to take regular breaks to compose himself due to the emotion of the situation, Jason turned his attention to his brother, Travis, who plays for the Kansas City Chiefs.
"I won't forget falling short to the Chiefs and the conflicting feeling of the heartbreak I had selfishly for myself and my teammates and, at the same time, the amount of pride I had in my brother. He climbed the mountain top once again," he said, cited by the Daily Mail.
Jason continued: "There is no chance I'd be here without the bond that Travis and I share. It had made me stronger, tougher, smarter and taught me the values of cooperation, loyalty, and understanding."
The star also heaped praise onto his wife, Kylie, claiming that he has enjoyed the best years of his career with her at his side, and that "every accolade I have ever received in my life has come with her in my life."
Jason spent his entire career in Philadelphia. Credit: Tim Nwachukwu/GettyAs for how he's going to spend his time now, Jason said: "It's exciting to think about possibilities, it's exciting to be able to lose weight, feel good, and not have to physically fight for my life every day. It's also daunting. It's anxiety. At the end of the day, it's the unknown."
Jason also hosts a podcast alongside his brother, which will presumably continue due to its incredible success - particularly after Travis got romantically involved with Taylor Swift.
We wish Jason all the best in his retirement!