Jason Kelce's Lasting Impact on the Eagles: From Pro Bowl Center to Mentor and Media Maven
Jason Kelce, the perennial Pro Bowl center for the Philadelphia Eagles, announced his retirement shortly after the 2023 season ended. Known for his consistent excellence on the field, Kelce has left an indelible mark on the franchise. However, his presence at the Eagles' facility remains strong, signaling that his influence extends far beyond his playing days.
A Constant Presence
Despite hanging up his cleats, Kelce is arguably more involved with the team now than some active players. Lane Johnson, a longtime teammate and close friend, emphasized Kelce’s persistent involvement: "Most definitely, he was in the building maybe more than a lot of players this offseason. He was in there lifting. He would be stretching, he would be talking. I think he was kind of seeking advice from people and opinions about his future. He was in the building a lot."
Kelce's dedication to staying fit and engaged with his former team is evident. He takes part in lifting and stretching exercises at the facility, actions that show his commitment to maintaining his physical health even post-retirement. It’s not just about physical presence, though. His interactions at the facility indicate that he’s also seeking counsel on his next steps, displaying the same thoughtfulness and preparation that marked his illustrious career.
Mentorship and Legacy
Perhaps one of Kelce’s most significant contributions post-retirement has been his mentorship of Dylan McMahon, the Eagles’ new center who was selected in the sixth round of April’s draft. McMahon, who has quickly benefited from Kelce’s wealth of experience, described the opportunity as invaluable: "He's the best center to ever do it. Just to meet him and have him around this building to be able to pick his brain once in a while is just an amazing experience."
Kelce’s guidance offers a bridge between the past and the future for the Eagles’ offensive line, ensuring that the wisdom he accumulated over the years does not just vanish but instead gets passed down to the next generation.
A Foot in the Coaching World
It’s clear the Eagles value Kelce's wisdom and experience. In a symbolic gesture, the organization has even assigned him a locker in the coach's locker room. Lane Johnson pointed out this unique status: "I think he has a locker in the coach's locker room now." This move speaks volumes about Kelce's ongoing relationship with the team and hints at a potential future in coaching, should he choose to go down that route.
New Ventures and Personal Life
While Kelce continues to play a significant role at the Eagles' facility, he’s also branching out into other ventures. This fall, he’s set to join the "Monday Night Countdown" crew, a move that showcases his versatility and media appeal. In addition, Kelce co-hosts a podcast with his brother, Travis Kelce, who is a star for the Kansas City Chiefs. This podcast provides yet another platform for Kelce to share his insights and experiences.
Amid all these activities, Kelce also treasures his time with his family. He spends quality moments with his three kids, ensuring that despite his busy schedule, he remains a dedicated father.
Jason Kelce's story is far from over. From the field to the training room, from mentoring new talent to stepping into the media spotlight, Kelce's multifaceted post-retirement life continues to evolve. His legacy at the Eagles endures, not just in accolades and achievements, but in the everyday influence he still wields within the organization.