Jason Kelce Cites Vita Vea as a Reason for His Retirement
The Philadelphia Eagles Center Reflects on His Career and the Impact of Vita Vea
Jason Kelce, the Philadelphia Eagles' longtime starting center, announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. In a heartfelt press conference, Kelce cited several reasons for his decision to step away from the game, including the physical toll it had taken on his body and his desire to spend more time with his family.
However, Kelce also singled out Vita Vea, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Pro Bowl defensive tackle, as a significant factor in his decision. "He was just so dominant," Kelce said of Vea. "I knew that if I wanted to continue playing, I would have to be able to block him, and I just didn't think I could do it anymore."
Vea's Impact on Kelce's Decision
Vea, a 6'5", 347-pound behemoth, has emerged as one of the most disruptive defensive tackles in the NFL since entering the league in 2018. He has made two Pro Bowls and was named a first-team All-Pro in 2022. Vea's combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen.
Kelce, who is 6'3" and 295 pounds, has long been considered one of the best centers in the NFL. He has made six Pro Bowls and was named a first-team All-Pro four times. However, Kelce admitted that Vea's presence on the field made him reconsider his future.
"I've played against a lot of great defensive tackles over the years," Kelce said. "But Vea is different. He's just so big and strong, and he's so athletic. I knew that if I wanted to keep playing, I would have to be able to block him, and I just didn't think I could do it anymore."
Kelce's Legacy
Kelce's retirement marks the end of an era for the Philadelphia Eagles. He was drafted by the team in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft and quickly became a mainstay on the offensive line. Kelce started all 17 games in each of his first 11 seasons in the NFL, and he was a key part of the Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory in 2018.
Kelce is widely considered one of the best centers in NFL history. He is known for his intelligence, leadership, and toughness. He is also a master of his craft, and he has been able to sustain a high level of play for over a decade.
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