Jason Kelce, the centre for the Philadelphia Eagles, has refuted reports that he has chosen to retire, citing “too much emotion” surrounding his team’s play-off defeat as the reason for his inaction.
The 36-year-old reportedly announced his retirement to his teammates during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers loss, according to US media.
Yet Kelce denied having made the choice on his New Heights podcast.
“There’s too much going down in the moment to really fully grasp that decision,” said Kelce.
After a game like that, I simply don’t believe you’re in a position to truly make that choice. Right now, there’s too much feeling.
“I’m not attempting to drag things out in an exaggerated manner. Actually, I’m not.
“When it’s time to officially announce what’s happening, it’ll be done in a way that’s definitive and pays respect to a lot of people that have meant a lot to me and have led to the career I’ve had.”
The Eagles picked Kelce in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL draft. He has played his whole career with the organisation, and in 2018, he won the Super Bowl.
In week six of the season, he made his 145th straight start for the Eagles, shattering the team record. He signed a one-year deal in March of last year.
Together with his younger brother Travis, a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, who has garnered a lot of attention due to his connection with artist Taylor Swift, Kelce hosts the show.
