Jason Kelce
Jason Daniel Kelce (born November 5, 1987) is a former American football center who played his entire 13-year NFL career for the Philadelphia Eagles. Known for his passionate play, leadership, and legendary Super Bowl parade speech, Kelce is considered one of the greatest centers in NFL history and a beloved figure in Philadelphia.
NFL Career
[edit | edit source]Kelce was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round (191st overall) of the 2011 NFL Draft out of the University of Cincinnati. Despite being a late-round pick, he developed into one of the best centers in league history.
Career Achievements
[edit | edit source]- Super Bowl LII Champion (2017 season)
- 7-time Pro Bowl selection (2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022)
- 6-time First-Team All-Pro (2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023)
- Philadelphia Eagles All-Time Team
- Most games started by an Eagles offensive lineman
Kelce started 193 games for the Eagles over his career, the most by any offensive lineman in franchise history.[1]
Super Bowl LII
[edit | edit source]Kelce played a crucial role in the Eagles' 41-33 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII on February 4, 2018, the franchise's first championship since 1960. The offensive line's dominant performance allowed the Eagles' offense to score the most points ever by a Super Bowl-winning team.
The Speech
[edit | edit source]On February 8, 2018, Kelce delivered what has become one of the most iconic speeches in Philadelphia sports history during the team's Super Bowl victory parade. Wearing a customized Mummers outfit, Kelce addressed the crowd from the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art with an emotional, expletive-filled speech that captured the spirit of the city.[2]
The speech included the memorable lines:
"{{{1}}}"
The "No one likes us, we don't care" chant became an unofficial Eagles anthem, and the speech is regarded as a defining moment in modern Philadelphia sports history.
Philadelphia Legacy
[edit | edit source]Kelce became synonymous with Philadelphia's blue-collar identity. His everyman personality, work ethic, and willingness to embrace the city's culture made him a fan favorite unlike any other.
Beyond football, Kelce:
- Hosted an annual charity kickball event
- Became known for his pre-game speeches and locker room leadership
- Remained accessible to fans throughout his career
- Brother Travis Kelce plays for the Kansas City Chiefs
Retirement
[edit | edit source]Kelce announced his retirement on March 4, 2024, in an emotional press conference at the NovaCare Complex. He signed a one-day contract to officially retire as an Eagle after 13 seasons.
Following retirement, Kelce joined ESPN as an NFL analyst while remaining in the Philadelphia area.
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Jason Kelce Announces Retirement". Philadelphia Eagles. March 4, 2024
- ↑ "Jason Kelce's incredible Mummers speech". ESPN. February 8, 2018