Jason Kelce announces retirement from football after 13 years following heartbreaking Tampa Bay loss

TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA: Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has reportedly announced his retirement from the NFL after a stellar 13-year career.

Kelce had become visibly emotional following a heartbreaking defeat by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was captured on the camera hugging offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland. 

Why did Jason Kelce announce his retirement? 

During the broadcast, as the emotional scenes unfolded on the screen, an announcer remarked, "That appears to be a man overwhelmed with emotion."

“You wonder if that’s it for 36-year-old Jason Kelce,” the announcer added.

Kelce then walked to the locker room tearing up before meeting his father Ed and his wife Kylie on the field.

He waved to them as he left the field and was seen tearing up on his way to the locker room.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Six-time All-Pro and future Hall-of-Fame center Kelce broke the news to his teammates in the locker room after their 32-9 defeat by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night.

Even as Kelce has strongly considered retiring at the end of last season and also filmed a hit Amazon Prime documentary about his struggle with the decision, this time is said to be "real and happening." 

There has been no announcement from the team yet, but experts are suggesting the Eagles legend and future Hall of Famer played his final football game. 

According to Daily Mail, following the struggle with his earlier decision, the father of three signed a one-year contract with the Eagles and was due to become a free agent in March.

Jason Kelce avoids talking to the media

Reportedly, a red-eyed Jason Kelce finished dressing in the locker room and picked up his bag before walking away.

"No, guys, Not Today," Kelce told the reporters gathered outside the locker room at Raymond James Stadium, making his way through a group of reporters as per NBC Sports.

Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson told reporters that Kelce has "hinted" to teammates that this would be his final season, according to the report.

"I love him. He's one of the best to ever play the game," Johnson said. "The things he can do on the football field athletically -- I don't think we'll see another one like him for a long time."

Kelce was drafted by the Eagles in 2011 after playing college football for the Cincinnati Bearcats and has spent his entire career in Philadelphia.

He had a remarkable 13-year career in the NFL, playing all seasons. Kelce made history in his rookie season by starting every game at his position.

He also earned six Pro Bowl selections, five first-team All-Pro honors, and five appearances on the NFL Top 100 list.

Jason Kelce is a legend in the city

"I love him," Eagles coach Nick Sirianni said. "He's special and I love him. He's one of the most special guys I've been around. He's always got a place here."

"He's a legend in the city -- really in the league," Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts said.

Jalen added, "His journey to where he is now didn't come easy. It's been a long, long time coming for him, and every year since I've been here it's been, 'Are you going to come back?'

"But he knows how much I love and appreciate him. He knows how much I've learned from him. He'll forever have a special place in my heart," he expressed.