What are the Eagles’ plans should Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox decide to retire?
Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce celebrated the Kansas City Chiefs’ victory in Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers in a manner befitting his reputation. Footage from the Chiefs’ post-game festivities at a Las Vegas nightclub depicts Kelce prominently positioned on the DJ stage, clad in a red and gold Lucha Libre wrestling mask matching his Kansas City-themed attire. This marked the culmination of a series of exuberant celebrations, including shirtless antics in Buffalo and hobnobbing with celebrities in Vegas leading up to the championship game.
Kelce’s exuberance at the afterparty, as witnessed by his teammates, adds weight to speculation about his retirement from professional football. Tackle Jordan Mailata expressed skepticism about Kelce’s return to the field, citing his lively off-field exploits as indicative of a transition away from the game. While Kelce has not definitively announced his retirement, his actions hint at a shift towards post-football pursuits.
Similarly, defensive tackle Fletcher Cox’s future with the Eagles remains uncertain despite his impressive career statistics and accolades. Teammate Jordan Davis remarked on Cox’s absence from the locker room, signaling the potential departure of another veteran pillar from the team.
The looming free agency period necessitates clarity from Kelce and Cox regarding their intentions, as their departure would not only signify the loss of skilled players but also influential figures within the team dynamic. Their combined experience of 25 years in the NFL and integral roles in the Eagles’ success, notably during their Super Bowl-winning 2017 season, leaves a significant leadership vacuum that would be challenging to fill.
While potential successors like Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and Nakobe Dean show promise, they lack the seasoned leadership of Kelce and Cox. The timing of their potential departure coincides with a period of transition for the Eagles, with changes in coaching staff and a need for improvement after a disappointing season.
On the field, the Eagles have made strategic moves to prepare for Kelce and Cox’s eventual departures, drafting players like Cam Jurgens and investing in young talents like Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter. However, the consistency of their performance remains a concern, particularly if they are tasked with filling the void left by established veterans like Cox.
As the specter of retirement looms for Kelce and Cox, the Eagles face the end of an era marked by the presence of four iconic players who have left an indelible mark on the team’s history.
