Although it’s not finalized, Jason Kelce’s chances of returning next season are looking better and better. The 34-year-old spoke with WIP earlier today and provided some insight into his position.

“I’m in the midst of thinking about that right now. I try and let the emotions fade from the season. It was an emotional year. We started off so rough, finished really strong, and obviously, the playoff game went really poorly. I think the biggest thing for me right is to step away and let all that calm down. Right after the game, I was like, ‘Is that really going to be my last game in the NFL?’. Unless you win the Super Bowl, they are all going to end on a bad note.

“The competitive side of me really wants to keep playing. There is no question about that. It is getting harder every single year, and the league has changed so much. I probably wouldn’t be able to play this long if Wednesdays weren’t significantly scaled-down if we were hitting every single day. That’s why a lot of these guys are going to play for much longer than guys have ever played. We will see.

To answer your question, I want to, but I have to make sure it’s the smart thing to do and that I still can do that and be a good teammate, good leader, and good player. As long as I can do all three of those, I’m definitely coming back.”

Kelce was named an All-Pro this season and is widely considered to still be the best center in football. Losing Kelce would be a tough blow for Philadelphia, but something fans have been expecting for several years. Kelce has been mulling retirement for a few years, signing short-term deals to keep his options open.

The Eagles’ center is a free agent after the 2022 season, but it’s almost certain that if he decides to continue playing, it will be with Philadelphia. Kelce’s teammate, Brandon Brooks, retired a few weeks back after five seasons with the franchise.

Nick Sirianni joked shortly after their loss to Tampa Bay that he sent him two kegs of beer to continue to play. Kelce mentions the shortening of difficult practices, and the Eagles would likely let Kelce practice even less if it means him sticking around longer.

Last offseason, the two sides agreed to a deal in early March, so Kelce’s decision will likely come again around that same time. It’ll be tough to see him go if he does, but the Eagles will be in good hands with Landon Dickerson likely moving back to center.

It’ll be a sad day when Jason Kelce retires. pic.twitter.com/Od6fXmyTBN

— Victor Williams (@ThePhillyPod) September 12, 2021

Mandatory Credit: NFL