Jason Kelce Shares What Might Tempt Him to Come Out of NFL Retirement

Only a medical miracle may persuade Jason Kelce to reconsider his ambitions to rejoin the NFL once he retires.

“My playing days are just over, and I don’t see any scenario wherein—aside from maybe medical science finding a way to cure arthritis—I would ever entertain coming back at all anymore,” the 36-year-old Kelce said in an Associated Press interview that was released on Tuesday, August 13.

After serving as a center for the Philadelphia Eagles for his whole 13-year career, Kelce announced his retirement following the 2023–2024 season. Kelce is already down from his playing weight of 295 pounds to 275 pounds, with a goal weight of 260 pounds, in addition to his body requiring a rest.

He went on, “They’re not going to call me to come back and play center at 260 pounds, and I’m moving on to the next thing,” adding that he’s “excited” to see Cam Jurgens, his replacement, play.

“I have no doubt that Cam will excel this year. He’s going to put on a fantastic display for the public, according to Kelce. “He’s going to thrive at center, and he was good for us last year at right guard.”

Even though Kelce’s playing days are ended, he is currently working on a number of other projects. Along with his brother Travis Kelce, he co-hosts the “New Heights” podcast. He has also joined the ESPN Monday Night Countdown broadcast crew.

After an amazing career, Jason announced his retirement with emotion, although he had already told Travis, 34, in a June “New Heights” episode that he felt it was time to move on.

When the moment comes, Jason added “this is when you’re going to start knowing and you need to walk away.” “It’s the struggle with your body; you feel like you’re limited to what you could once accomplish.” At that point, you feel as like you’re struggling to keep regaining it. That’s when the going becomes tough. In the end, everyone is aware of when they are ready.

It all came down to not feeling like he was performing at his best, according to the six-time all-pro star.

He went on, “I just don’t think I could play it at the level I used to play it at.” “I know that even though some may disagree because I was out there last year and I couldn’t execute the way I wanted to.”

Fortunately, he’s still in excellent form since his wife Kylie Kelce forces him to work out three times a week in order to maintain his endorphin levels.

Jason, 36, stated on the August 9 episode of Yote House Media’s podcast “Green Light With Chris Long,” “She just implemented this, but she said I have to work out a minimum of three days a week, otherwise she doesn’t want to deal with me.” “I just am a better person after working out; I am in a great mood and get along with everyone at home.”